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HET → XIL
Which side of the plane to sit from Baita International Airport (Hohhot) to Xilinhot Airport (Xilinhot)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the iconic Huitengxile wind farms and the unique basalt flat-topped mountains that define the Xilin Gol landscape.
Huitengxile Wind Farm
One of Asia's largest wind power bases, featuring thousands of white turbines spinning across the high-altitude alpine meadows.
Pingding Mountain
Unique flat-topped basalt mesas near Xilinhot that look like a series of natural platforms rising from the grassland.
Xilin River Meanders
The 'Nine Curves' of the Xilin River appearing as a silver ribbon winding through the lush green steppe during the approach.
Nomadic Settlements
Clusters of traditional and modern yurts (Gers) and livestock herds scattered across the Xilin Gol National Nature Reserve.
Huiteng Lake
Small, sparkling alpine lakes nestled within the depressions of the grassland plateau.
The right side is highly recommended for the descent into Xilinhot. Request a window seat away from the wing to see the flat-topped mountains. Traveling between July and August provides the most vibrant green landscape, while afternoon flights offer warm, golden light on the grasslands.
Daqing Mountains
The northern stretch of the Yin Mountains featuring rugged peaks and deep valleys immediately after departure from Hohhot.
Hohhot City Fringe
A clear view of the urban sprawl of Hohhot transitioning into the semi-arid mountain foothills.
Siziwang Banner Steppe
Expansive views of the high-altitude steppe, historically famous as the landing site for China's Shenzhou spacecraft.
Remote Tracking Stations
Occasional glimpses of satellite tracking infrastructure scattered across the northern Inner Mongolian plains.
Sit on the left if you prefer looking at the more rugged, arid textures of the northern Yin Mountains. For early morning flights, this side will have the best lighting without direct sun glare, perfect for photography of the mountain ridges.
Distance: 481 km (299 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 48 min
Departure: HET (40.851398, 111.823997)
Arrival: XIL (43.91559982299805, 115.96399688720705)
Route Type: Domestic
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