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DOH → CTU
Which side of the plane to sit from Hamad International Airport (Doha) to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (Chengdu)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the world's highest mountain ranges, including the Karakoram and Hindu Kush, while avoiding the direct glare of the sun on this eastbound route.
Persian Gulf Coast
Stunning views of the Iranian coastline and the turquoise waters of the gulf immediately after departure from Doha.
Hindu Kush Peaks
Dramatic, jagged snow-capped mountains spanning across Afghanistan and Pakistan, offering some of the most rugged terrain on Earth.
Karakoram Range
On clear days, see the massive glaciers and towering peaks of the Karakoram, located just north of the flight path.
Northern Tibetan Plateau
The 'Roof of the World' reveals a high-altitude wilderness of vast salt lakes and desolate mountain beauty.
Minshan Mountains
The limestone peaks and lush valleys that mark the final descent into the Sichuan province.
The left side faces north on this eastbound flight, meaning the sun remains on the opposite side of the aircraft, providing perfect lighting for photography. This side is especially rewarding during the middle of the flight when passing over the high-altitude lakes of Tibet.
Dasht-e Lut
Aerial views of the UNESCO-listed desert in Iran, featuring unique yardang rock formations and vast sand dunes.
Southern Himalayas
Distant views of the main Himalayan chain to the south, showcasing the world's highest ridgeline against the horizon.
Yarlung Tsangpo River
The massive river systems winding through the deep valleys of southern Tibet before they turn south into India.
Hengduan Mountains
Deeply forested and incredibly steep parallel mountain ridges that transition into the Sichuan Basin.
Sichuan Basin
The lush, green, and often mist-shrouded agricultural heartland of China during the final approach into Chengdu.
While the right side offers a chance to see the Himalayas to the south, be prepared for significant sun glare and heat if flying during daylight hours. This side is best for seeing the transition from the high-altitude plateau into the deep, green river valleys near Chengdu.
Distance: 5,131 km (3,188 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 2 min
Departure: DOH (25.273056, 51.608056)
Arrival: CTU (30.578500747680664, 103.9469985961914)
Route Type: International
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