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DAT → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Datong Airport (Datong) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the massive Guanting Reservoir and the dramatic descent over the Western Hills into the Beijing metropolis, often featuring the Olympic Park landmarks.
Loess Plateau Edge
Dramatic erosion patterns and terraced landscapes as you depart the Datong basin.
Guanting Reservoir
A vast expanse of water nestled between mountains, often surrounded by hundreds of wind turbines.
Western Hills (Xishan)
The 'lungs of Beijing,' featuring historic temples and the Summer Palace visible in the distance.
Olympic Green
Clear views of the 'Bird's Nest' National Stadium and 'Water Cube' during northern approaches to PEK.
Beijing CBD Skyline
The cluster of skyscrapers including the China Zun tower visible on the horizon during the final descent.
The Guanting Reservoir is the highlight of this route; sit on the right for a full view of the water and the extensive wind farms. Afternoon flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the Beijing skyline without glare.
Yan Mountains
Rugged, jagged peaks of the Yan mountain range that form the northern boundary of the Beijing plain.
Badaling Great Wall
The most famous section of the Great Wall visible snaking along the mountain ridges during the descent.
Ming Tombs Valley
A lush, protected valley containing the imperial mausoleums of the Ming Dynasty emperors.
Huairou District
Aerial views of the scenic northern suburbs known for their chestnut orchards and mountain resorts.
Watch for the Great Wall approximately 20-25 minutes into the flight. For the best clarity of the wall's structure, choose a flight during late autumn or winter when the vegetation is sparse and the air is traditionally clearer.
Distance: 264 km (164 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 26 min
Departure: DAT (40.060299, 113.482002)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: Domestic
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