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DIG → KMG
Which side of the plane to sit from Diqing Airport (Shangri-La) to Kunming Changshui International Airport (Kunming)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a front-row seat to the spectacular Haba and Jade Dragon Snow Mountains shortly after takeoff, followed by deep views into the Jinsha River canyons.
Haba Snow Mountain
Witness the massive 5,396-meter peak rising sharply from the plateau shortly after departing Shangri-La.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
A breathtaking view of the 13 peaks of Shanzidou, often draped in glaciers and snow year-round.
Jinsha River Gorge
Look down into the deep V-shaped canyons where the upper Yangtze River snakes through the mountains.
Kunming Urban Fringe
The rapid urban expansion of northern Kunming as the aircraft descends towards Changshui International Airport.
Sit on the left side (typically Seat A) for the most dramatic mountain views. Morning flights (before 10:00 AM) are highly recommended to avoid the convective clouds that often shroud the peaks by midday. Ensure your window is clean as the high-altitude sun can create significant glare against the snow in winter months.
Shangri-La Highlands
An expansive view of the high-altitude Tibetan pastures and traditional stone houses immediately after takeoff.
Cangshan Mountains
In the distance, the long ridge of the Cangshan range near Dali can be seen on clear days.
Dianchi Lake
On the final approach to Kunming, the vast expanse of Dianchi Lake appears to the southwest of the city.
Changshui Architecture
A great view of the unique 'Golden Wing' design of the Kunming terminal building during the landing roll.
The right side (typically Seat F) is better for seeing the broader plateau landscape and the outskirts of Dali in the distance. This side often experiences less direct sunlight on morning flights, making it easier to take photos without harsh reflections. Watch for the dramatic change in terrain from rugged mountains to the red-earth plateau near Kunming.
Distance: 441 km (274 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 44 min
Departure: DIG (27.7936, 99.6772)
Arrival: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)
Route Type: Domestic
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