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CTU → HDG
Which side of the plane to sit from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (Chengdu) to Handan Airport (Handan)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic transition from the Sichuan Basin over the Qinling Mountains, the winding Yellow River, and the spectacular eastern cliffs of the Taihang Mountains.
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Longquan Ridge
A sharp mountain ridge that marks the boundary of the Chengdu Plain, often visible within 10 minutes of departure.
Yellow River Bend
The iconic sight of the Yellow River as it flows through the Jinshaan Canyons and turns eastward near the Sanmenxia region.
Taihang Mountains
Stunning vertical cliffs and deep limestone gorges that define the western edge of the North China Plain.
North China Plain
The endless patchwork of wheat and corn fields that signifies the final approach into the historical city of Handan.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to capture the 'Golden Hour' lighting on the Taihang Mountain cliffs. Watch closely during the descent phase for the dramatic drop-off where the mountains meet the flat North China Plain. The Yellow River is most visible roughly midway through the flight.
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Chengdu Urban Sprawl
Bird's eye view of the dense urban grid of Chengdu and its rapid expansion eastward shortly after takeoff.
Qinling Main Range
High-altitude views of the primary ridge of the Qinling Mountains, the vital geographic divide between North and South China.
Loess Plateau
The unique, deeply eroded landscape of the Shaanxi and Shanxi plateaus, featuring intricate terrace patterns.
Fen River Valley
The fertile corridor of central Shanxi province, dotted with ancient industrial cities and agricultural belts.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. This side provides the best perspective on the vastness of the Loess Plateau's terraced hills. Keep an eye out about 40 minutes into the flight for the highest peaks of the Qinling range.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 1,174 km (729 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: CTU (30.578500747680664, 103.9469985961914)
Arrival: HDG (36.5258333333, 114.425555556)
Route Type: Domestic
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