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CTU → FRA
Which side of the plane to sit from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (Chengdu) to Frankfurt am Main Airport (Frankfurt)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side (A-side seats) offers the most dramatic geographic diversity, featuring the high-altitude peaks of the Pamirs and Caucasus, the vast expanse of the Black Sea, and a potential glimpse of the Alps during the descent into Central Europe.
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Pamir Mountains
Breathtaking views of the 'Roof of the World' as you cross Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.
Issyk-Kul Lake
The world's second-largest alpine lake, shimmering with turquoise water against snowy peaks.
The Caucasus Range
Spectacular views of Mount Elbrus and the rugged peaks separating the Caspian and Black Seas.
Black Sea Coast
A long, scenic transit over the deep blue waters of the Black Sea heading toward the Balkans.
The Alps
As the flight nears Germany, the northern edges of the Alps provide a stunning backdrop of jagged limestone.
On the left side, you will face south, meaning the sun will be on your side for most of the westward journey; keep your window shade down during mid-flight to avoid glare, but open it over Central Asia. The best mountain views occur roughly 3-5 hours after departure. For the best photography of the Caucasus, aim for a flight departing CTU in the morning.
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Taklamakan Desert
Intricate sand dune patterns and the desolate beauty of the Tarim Basin in Western China.
Tian Shan Mountains
The 'Celestial Mountains' offer jagged, snow-capped ridges along the border with Kazakhstan.
Caspian Sea Northern Shore
Views of the shallow northern Caspian and the complex delta of the Ural River.
Eurasian Steppe
Vast, undulating plains and agricultural patchworks across Southern Russia and Kazakhstan.
Frankfurt Skyline
On final approach to FRA, you may see the 'Mainhattan' skyscrapers if the wind is from the East.
The right side offers softer lighting as it faces north, which is ideal for capturing the textures of the Taklamakan Desert without harsh shadows. This side is also better for spotting the Aral Sea remnants and the meandering Volga River. If you prefer a cooler cabin temperature, the right side stays out of direct sunlight for the duration of the flight.
Book Hotels in FrankfurtDistance: 7,810 km (4,853 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 11 min
Departure: CTU (30.578500747680664, 103.9469985961914)
Arrival: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)
Route Type: International
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