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CTU â PZI
Which side of the plane to sit from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (Chengdu) to Bao'anying Airport (Panzhihua)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point for the dramatic transition from the Sichuan Basin to the high-altitude mountains, featuring distant views of the 'King of Sichuan' Gongga Mountain and the deep Dadu River canyons.
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Gongga Mountain
On clear days, look far west to spot the shimmering, snow-covered pyramid peak of Minya Konka, the highest point in Sichuan.
Dadu River Canyon
Marvel at the incredible depth and sheer cliffs of this massive canyon system cutting through the Hengduan Mountains.
Daxue Mountains
A continuous panorama of rugged, high-altitude peaks that form the eastern staircase to the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau.
Panzhihua Airport Approach
Experience the unique sensation of approaching the mountaintop 'aircraft carrier' airport, seeing the steep ridges leveled for the runway.
The right side is superior for mountain photography; late morning or afternoon flights provide the best contrast on the snowy peaks. The final approach is particularly dramatic on this side as the aircraft flies parallel to the high ridges before landing on the mountaintop.
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Sichuan Basin Edge
Watch the urban sprawl of Chengdu transition into the rolling green hills and terraced fields characteristic of the basin's southern border.
Mount Emei
Observe the majestic silhouette of one of China's four sacred Buddhist mountains rising steeply from the surrounding terrain.
Qionghai Lake
A beautiful view of the large, crystal-clear lake located right next to Xichang city as you head further south.
Jinsha River
See the winding, emerald-to-ochre waters of the upper Yangtze River as it snakes through the deep valleys near Panzhihua.
Opt for morning flights to enjoy soft lighting over the Chengdu Plain and Mount Emei. As the plane descends into Panzhihua, the left side provides a great view of the industrial city nestled in the river valley before banking for the final approach.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 496 km (308 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 50 min
Departure: CTU (30.578500747680664, 103.9469985961914)
Arrival: PZI (26.54, 101.79852)
Route Type: Domestic
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