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GXH destination photo
XIY destination photo

GXHXIY

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic transition from the high-altitude Tibetan Plateau edge into the deep canyons of the Tao River and the northern slopes of the Qinling Mountains.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Gannan Highlands

Breath-taking views of the rugged, often snow-dusted peaks that define the edge of the Tibetan Plateau near Xiahe.

💧

Tao River Canyons

Deeply incised river valleys where the water has carved dramatic paths through the high-altitude terrain.

⛰️

Qinling Range Northern Fringes

The massive geographical divider of China, appearing as a wall of dark green mountains to the south.

🌲

High-Altitude Meadows

Expansive alpine pastures that transition from lush green in summer to deep gold in autumn.

🌊

Wei River Bend

The historic Wei River winding through the Guanzhong Plain shortly before arrival in Xi'an.

The right side is ideal for morning flights to see the Gannan peaks illuminated by the rising sun. Shortly after takeoff from GXH, keep your camera ready for the rapid descent from the plateau, which offers some of the most dramatic elevation changes visible from a commercial flight in China.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🌾

Loess Plateau Terraces

Exquisite, multi-layered agricultural patterns carved into the yellow-silt hills typical of Gansu province.

🏘️

Linxia Basin

A cultural mosaic of villages and diverse architecture nestled in the valleys north of the flight path.

🏙️

Xianyang Skyline

Clear views of the modern urban sprawl and industrial sectors as the aircraft aligns for the approach into XIY.

🛣️

Lianhuo Expressway

One of China's most vital transport arteries visible cutting through the rugged Loess landscape.

Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid direct sunlight. This side provides the best perspective of the intricate 'sculpted' landscape of the Loess Plateau, especially stunning during the harvest season when the terraces change color.

Top Activities in Xi'an
Route Information

Distance: 560 km (348 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 56 min

Departure: GXH (34.8105, 102.6447)

Arrival: XIY (34.447102, 108.751999)

Route Type: Domestic

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