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CGO destination photo
CTU destination photo

CGOCTU

Our Recommendation
8.5

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
⛰️

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.

Top Activities in Chengdu
Route Information

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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