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CTU → TYN
Which side of the plane to sit from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (Chengdu) to Taiyuan Wusu Airport (Taiyuan)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Qinling Mountains, the primary geographic divide between North and South China, and the intricate erosion patterns of the Loess Plateau.
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Qinling Mountains
A massive, continuous ridge that serves as China's major climatic and biological boundary.
Yellow River (Huanghe)
The iconic river as it carves its way through the Loess Plateau near the Jin-Shaan border.
Loess Plateau Terraces
Spectacular and intricate human-made agricultural patterns carved into the yellow silt hills.
Ancient Shanxi Settlements
Clustered traditional architecture and historic villages typical of the North China highlands.
The right side is essential for seeing the Yellow River crossing. Choose an afternoon flight for the best side-lighting, which emphasizes the deep erosion and shadows of the Loess Plateau's unique terrain. Be sure to look for the distinct color change in the soil as you cross the Qinling range into the north.
Book Hotels in TaiyuanLongmen Mountains
The dramatic rising edge of the Sichuan Basin visible shortly after takeoff.
Micang Mountains
Dense, rugged peaks that define the border between Sichuan and Shaanxi provinces.
Fen River Valley
The fertile agricultural and industrial corridor leading toward the heart of Shanxi.
Industrial Landmarks
Large-scale industrial sites and steel plants visible on the outskirts of Taiyuan.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side offers better views of the high-altitude peaks of northern Sichuan during the initial climb. In winter, look for the sharp snow line that often stops at the Qinling range.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 1,127 km (700 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 30 min
Departure: CTU (30.578500747680664, 103.9469985961914)
Arrival: TYN (37.74689865112305, 112.62799835205078)
Route Type: Domestic
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