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HAK → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Haikou Meilan International Airport (Haikou) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more dramatic view of China's diverse geography, transitioning from the tropical coast of Hainan to the rugged Nanling and Taihang mountain ranges, concluding with a scenic approach over Beijing's Western Hills.
Haikou Coastline
Panoramic views of the northern Hainan coast and the urban sprawl of Haikou city immediately after takeoff.
Nanling Mountains
Rugged karst topography and dense greenery as the flight crosses from Guangdong into the inland provinces.
Yangtze River Crossing
A high-altitude view of the winding Yangtze River as it cuts through the central Hubei and Hunan corridor.
Taihang Mountains
The sharp ridge lines of the Taihang range providing a dramatic barrier between the loess plateau and the North China Plain.
Beijing Western Hills
The iconic mountain backdrop of the capital city, visible during the final descent into the Beijing area.
For afternoon flights, the left side is ideal for capturing the sunset over the mountains. During the descent into PEK, keep your camera ready for the contrast between the high-density urban landscape and the surrounding peaks. Winter flights often reveal snow-capped ridges in the north.
Qiongzhou Strait
A clear view of the maritime traffic and the narrow channel separating Hainan Island from the Chinese mainland.
Leizhou Peninsula
The southernmost tip of the mainland, showcasing unique red soil and coastal agricultural patterns.
Dongting Lake Basin
Aerial views of one of China's largest freshwater lakes and its complex network of interconnected waterways.
Yellow River
The massive, silt-heavy 'Mother River' of China as it flows through the agricultural heartland of Henan.
Bohai Gulf Glint
On clear days, the distant shimmer of the Bohai Sea is visible to the east as the plane nears the Jing-Jin-Ji region.
The right side is best for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise without harsh glare. It offers better views of China's massive freshwater systems and the vast, flat North China Plain. Look for the distinct change in river colors from the blue Yangtze to the muddy Yellow River.
Distance: 2,315 km (1,438 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 5 min
Departure: HAK (19.93490028381348, 110.45899963378906)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: Domestic
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