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HET → XIY
Which side of the plane to sit from Baita International Airport (Hohhot) to Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (Xi'an)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers spectacular views of the rugged Daqing Mountains during departure and the intricate, deeply eroded landscapes of the Loess Plateau throughout the journey.
Daqing Mountains
Dramatic mountain peaks visible immediately after takeoff from Hohhot, framing the northern edge of the Tumochuan Plain.
Yellow River Crossing
A clear view of the 'Great Bend' where the Yellow River flows south, marking the boundary between Inner Mongolia and Shanxi.
Loess Plateau Terraces
Stunning geometric patterns created by centuries of terraced farming on the yellowish-brown silt hills of northern Shaanxi.
Yan'an Highlands
The unique topography surrounding the historic city of Yan'an, characterized by high ridges and deep valleys.
Wei River Valley
The transition into the fertile green plains as the aircraft descends towards the ancient capital of Xi'an.
Book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the intricate textures of the Loess Plateau. The terraced fields are most vibrant in late spring (green) or autumn (golden). Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff for the Daqing range.
Ordos Plateau
The vast, high-altitude grasslands and semi-desert landscapes stretching across the Ordos Loop.
Kubuqi Desert
Golden sand dunes visible to the west shortly after departure, showcasing the northern edge of China's seventh-largest desert.
Mu Us Desert Greenery
Observation of large-scale desertification control projects where sand is being successfully reclaimed by vegetation.
Xi'an North Expansion
Views of the rapidly developing urban landscape and high-speed rail lines on the northern outskirts of Xi'an during final approach.
Choose this side for late afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. It is the better choice for observing the vastness of the Ordos region and the fascinating checkerboard patterns of desert reclamation projects.
Distance: 762 km (473 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 16 min
Departure: HET (40.851398, 111.823997)
Arrival: XIY (34.447102, 108.751999)
Route Type: Domestic
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