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CKG destination photo
ZAT destination photo

CKGZAT

Our Recommendation
8.2

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🌉

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🏙️

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.

Top Activities in Zhaotong
Route Information

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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