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EWR → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Newark Liberty International Airport (Newark) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the High Arctic islands, the legendary Lake Baikal in Siberia, and the potential to spot the Great Wall of China during the descent into Beijing.
Baffin Island Fjords
Spectacular views of jagged peaks and deep glacial valleys in Nunavut.
Arctic Ice Pack
Breathtaking views of the floating sea ice near the North Pole.
Lake Baikal
The world's deepest and oldest freshwater lake, often seen as a massive crescent.
Yablonovyy Range
Rugged Siberian mountains that separate the Arctic and Pacific watersheds.
The Great Wall
Occasional sightings of the wall's northern sections during the descent into PEK.
The right side is the clear winner for landmark enthusiasts. About 9-11 hours into the flight, keep a close watch for Lake Baikal; it is unmistakable even from high altitudes. During the final 30 minutes of the flight, the approach from the north often provides a rare aerial perspective of the Great Wall snaking over the mountains north of Beijing.
Hudson Bay Shoreline
Aerial views of the massive bay's western coastline and seasonal ice flows.
Victoria Island
A glimpse into the vast, desolate beauty of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago.
Aurora Borealis
Excellent positioning for viewing the Northern Lights during the dark polar transit.
Central Siberian Plateau
Endless stretches of taiga forest and remote river systems in northern Russia.
Gobi Desert
The dramatic transition from the Siberian forest to the arid Mongolian steppe.
The left side is ideal for catching the sunset or sunrise depending on the specific flight timing. In winter, keep your window shade open during the dark Arctic crossing to look for the Aurora Borealis. Watch for the stark contrast between the green Siberian forests and the yellow sands of the Gobi as you cross the Mongolian border.
Distance: 10,968 km (6,815 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 12 hrs 54 min
Departure: EWR (40.69250106811523, -74.168701171875)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: International
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