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HGH → DNH
Which side of the plane to sit from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (Hangzhou) to Dunhuang Airport (Dunhuang)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a breathtaking front-row seat to the snow-capped Qilian Mountains and the iconic Mingsha Shan sand dunes as you approach Dunhuang.
Qiantang River
Immediately after takeoff from HGH, enjoy views of the winding Qiantang River and Hangzhou's modern skyline.
Qinling Mountain Range
Mid-flight views of the massive mountain range that serves as the natural boundary between North and South China.
Qilian Mountains
The highlight of the trip, featuring a long stretch of majestic, snow-capped peaks along the Hexi Corridor.
Mingsha Shan Dunes
Stunning golden sand dunes of the 'Singing Sands' mountain visible during the final descent into Dunhuang.
Crescent Lake Area
Depending on the wind and approach path, the oasis greenery near the sand dunes can be spotted.
Sit on the left (Window A) for the best views of the Qilian Mountains. For morning flights, this side will be shaded, providing better photo opportunities without sun glare. Watch for the dramatic change from the lush greenery of Zhejiang to the stark, arid landscapes of Gansu about halfway through the flight.
Yellow River Loops
Spot the iconic yellow silty waters of the Huanghe as it winds through the Loess Plateau.
Loess Plateau
Observe the unique, heavily eroded 'broken' landscape of the plateau across Shaanxi and eastern Gansu.
Dunhuang Solar Farms
Massive arrays of solar panels and glowing molten salt towers reflecting sunlight in the Gobi Desert.
Gobi Desert Expanse
Vast, desolate, and beautiful stretches of the black and grey stone desert characteristic of Northern Gansu.
The right side (Window F) is excellent for spotting the massive solar power installations near Dunhuang, which look like glowing cities in the desert. On afternoon flights, be prepared for significant sun glare as you head West/Northwest; keep your window shade partially down to protect your eyes while scanning for the Yellow River.
Distance: 2,565 km (1,594 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 25 min
Departure: HGH (30.22949981689453, 120.43399810791016)
Arrival: DNH (40.16109848022461, 94.80919647216795)
Route Type: Domestic
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