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CTU → LHW
Which side of the plane to sit from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (Chengdu) to Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport (Lanzhou)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a spectacular vantage point for viewing the dramatic vertical transition from the lush Sichuan Basin into the high-altitude peaks of the eastern Tibetan Plateau and the Gannan highlands.
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Longmen Mountain Range
Witness the tectonic boundary where the Sichuan Basin ends and the mountains rise sharply toward the plateau.
Min Shan Snow Peaks
On clear days, spot the high-altitude snowy summits of the Min Mountains, including views toward the Jiuzhaigou region.
Gannan Grasslands
Vast stretches of high-altitude alpine meadows and wetlands that characterize the southern Gansu landscape.
Bailong River Gorges
The deep, winding canyons carved by the Bailong River through the rugged mountainous terrain of northern Sichuan.
Book a window seat on the left (typically 'A') for morning flights to get the best sunlight illuminating the mountain faces. Avoid seats directly over the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the sharp mountain ridges and deep gorges. This side is especially beautiful in late autumn when the peaks begin to accumulate fresh snow.
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Chengdu Basin Transition
See the dense urban sprawl and green agricultural grids of Chengdu fade into the foothills.
Loess Plateau Terraces
Intricate, multi-layered terraced fields that cover the unique yellow-earth hills of the Loess Plateau.
Yellow River S-Curves
The 'Mother River' of China comes into view during the descent, winding through the arid valleys near Lanzhou.
Lanzhou Arid Ridges
The stark, tawny-colored mountain ridges surrounding Lanzhou offer a massive contrast to the greenery of Chengdu.
The right side (typically 'F') is best for observing the human geography of the region, specifically the massive terracing projects on the Loess Plateau. Afternoon flights are ideal for this side as the sun highlights the texture of the eroded hills. Pay close attention during the final 20 minutes of the flight for the best views of the Yellow River.
Book Hotels in LanzhouDistance: 661 km (411 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 6 min
Departure: CTU (30.578500747680664, 103.9469985961914)
Arrival: LHW (36.5152015686, 103.620002747)
Route Type: Domestic
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