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CIF destination photo
NKG destination photo

CIFNKG

Which side of the plane to sit from Chifeng Airport (Chifeng) to Nanjing Lukou Airport (Nanjing)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for viewing the rugged Yanshan mountain ranges, distant views of the Beijing metropolitan area, the majestic crossing of the Yellow River, and the iconic Purple Mountain during the approach into Nanjing.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Yanshan Mountains

Dramatic views of the rugged peaks and deep valleys north of the North China Plain shortly after departure.

🏮

Beijing Outskirts

The massive urban sprawl and infrastructure of the capital region are often visible in the distance to the west.

🐉

Yellow River Crossing

A spectacular view of the silt-heavy 'Mother River' as it meanders through the heart of China.

🚢

Yangtze River

Witness the immense scale of the Chang Jiang (Yangtze) and its heavy industrial ship traffic just before landing.

🌳

Purple Mountain

The lush, forested Zijin Shan stands out as a green landmark against the dense Nanjing urban landscape.

Choose the right side for afternoon flights to enjoy the warm 'golden hour' light hitting the mountains. During the descent into NKG, keep your eyes peeled for the Nanjing Eye Pedestrian Bridge and the high-speed rail lines converging on the city.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌾

Inner Mongolian Plains

Expansive views of the rolling grasslands and agricultural patterns surrounding Chifeng shortly after takeoff.

🌊

Bohai Gulf Horizon

On clear days, the distant glint of the Bohai Sea is visible to the east as the plane traverses Hebei Province.

🛶

Grand Canal

Identify the historic Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal as it winds through the flat landscapes of the North China Plain.

💧

Gaoyou Lake

A massive freshwater lake in Jiangsu province that provides a shimmering mirror-like surface during the descent.

🏙️

Yangzhou Cityscape

Views of the ancient city of Yangzhou and its modern expansions just north of the Yangtze River.

The left side is ideal for morning flights to witness the sunrise over the East China Sea horizon, though glare can be intense. Look for the distinct silver threads of irrigation networks throughout the North China Plain.

Top Activities in Nanjing
Route Information

Distance: 1,167 km (725 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 33 min

Departure: CIF (42.23500061035156, 118.90799713134766)

Arrival: NKG (31.742000579833984, 118.86199951171876)

Route Type: Domestic

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