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CTU → YIH
Which side of the plane to sit from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (Chengdu) to Yichang Sanxia Airport (Yichang)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular views of the Yangtze River's winding path through the mountains and provides a prime vantage point for the Three Gorges Dam during the descent into Yichang.
Longquan Ridge
The first major topographic feature after takeoff, separating the Chengdu Plain from the hilly central Sichuan region.
Yangtze River Bends
Stunning views of the mighty Yangtze River as it carves deep, serpentine canyons through the Wu Mountains.
Three Gorges Dam
The world's largest power station and a massive engineering marvel, typically visible on the southern approach to Yichang.
Enshi Karst Peaks
To the south, look for the unique pillar-like karst formations and deep canyons typical of the Enshi region.
Yichang Urban Area
A clear view of the city of Yichang and its numerous bridges crossing the Yangtze as the plane aligns for landing.
This is the 'scenic side' for the Three Gorges. For the best view of the Three Gorges Dam, watch closely during the last 15 minutes of the flight. Use a window seat behind the wing to ensure your view of the river meanders isn't obstructed by the aircraft structure. Afternoon flights offer beautiful lighting on the water.
North Chengdu Skyline
Aerial view of the northern urban sprawl of Chengdu and the Qingbaijiang industrial district shortly after takeoff.
Daba Mountains
A massive mountain range forming the northern boundary of the Sichuan Basin, featuring jagged peaks and deep valleys.
Shennongjia Border
Distant views of the high-altitude primeval forests and biodiversity hotspot in western Hubei province.
Sichuan Basin Rim
Observe the dramatic transition from the flat, often misty Sichuan basin floor to the rising eastern highlands.
Northern Basin Foothills
Rolling hills and agricultural terraces that define the landscape as the plane exits the Sichuan province.
The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. It provides the best perspective of the rugged Daba mountain range. Look for the 'sea of clouds' phenomenon which is common over the Sichuan Basin, creating a surreal landscape above the mist.
Distance: 721 km (448 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 12 min
Departure: CTU (30.578500747680664, 103.9469985961914)
Arrival: YIH (30.55655, 111.479988)
Route Type: Domestic
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