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CKG → ZAT
Which side of the plane to sit from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (Chongqing) to Zhaotong Airport (Zhaotong)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic transition from the Sichuan Basin to the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, featuring the sharp bends of the Jinsha River and the industrial landscape of Yibin.
Jialing-Yangtze Confluence
A clear view of the distinct water color line where the two major rivers meet at Chaotianmen Pier.
Yibin Cityscape
Known as the 'First City of the Yangtze,' you can see the convergence of the Min and Jinsha rivers.
Mountain Expressways
Intricate networks of bridges and tunnels visible as the G85 highway cuts through the steep terrain.
Jinsha River Gorges
Deeply incised river valleys with dramatic elevation changes as you approach the Zhaotong landing corridor.
Plateau Agriculture
Patterned highland farming plots typical of the Zhaotong region just before touchdown.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to catch the sunset reflecting off the Jinsha River. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing to capture the dramatic shift from the flat basin floor to the high plateau ridges.
Chongqing Skyline
Aerial view of the dense 'Mountain City' skyscrapers and the sprawling Nanan District shortly after takeoff.
Yangtze River Curves
Wide bends of the Yangtze River as it winds through the southern Sichuan hills.
Wumeng Mountains
The first sightings of the rugged, limestone-heavy peaks that define the border between Sichuan and Yunnan.
Valley Mist
Atmospheric fog commonly trapped within the deep karst valleys of northern Yunnan during morning flights.
Sit on the left for morning flights to experience soft lighting over the Wumeng range. This side is better for spotting the dense urban planning of Chongqing's southern suburbs during the initial climb.
Distance: 388 km (241 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 39 min
Departure: CKG (29.719200134277344, 106.64199829101562)
Arrival: ZAT (27.32559967041016, 103.75499725341795)
Route Type: Domestic
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