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CGO → CTU
Which side of the plane to sit from Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (Zhengzhou) to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (Chengdu)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for witnessing the geographic transition from the North China Plain, over the high peaks of the Qinling Mountains, and into the Sichuan Basin.
Yellow River
The iconic snaking curves of the Yellow River are visible to the northwest during the initial climb.
Luoyang City
A clear view of one of China's ancient capitals and the surrounding industrial landscape.
Qinling Main Ridge
Stunning views of the massive mountain barrier that separates North and South China.
Sichuan Basin Edge
The dramatic drop-off where the high mountains meet the low-lying, often misty Sichuan Basin.
Xi'an Perimeter
On clear days, the southern outskirts of Xi'an and the Wei River valley can be seen in the distance.
The right side is best for afternoon flights to avoid the direct southern sun. Keep your camera ready about 30-40 minutes after takeoff for the most dramatic Qinling peak views. Note that the Sichuan Basin is frequently cloudy, so the best mountain views occur just before the descent into the clouds.
Mount Song
Home to the famous Shaolin Temple, visible shortly after takeoff from Zhengzhou.
Funiu Mountains
The eastern extension of the Qinling range featuring rugged, forested peaks.
Daba Mountains
Layered mountain ridges providing a dramatic backdrop as the plane crosses into Sichuan.
Chengdu South
Views of the rapidly expanding urban landscape of the Tianfu New Area during descent.
Choose a window seat forward of the wing for unobstructed views of the Funiu range. Morning flights are ideal for the left side as the sun will be behind you, highlighting the mountain textures without glare.
Distance: 1,025 km (637 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min
Departure: CGO (34.519699096699995, 113.841003418)
Arrival: CTU (30.578500747680664, 103.9469985961914)
Route Type: Domestic
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