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HKT → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Phuket International Airport (Phuket) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an unbeatable start with views of the limestone karsts in Phang Nga Bay, followed by extensive views of China's major river systems and a more scenic approach into Beijing's urban landscape.
Phang Nga Bay
World-famous limestone islands and emerald waters visible shortly after takeoff from HKT.
Guilin Karst Landscape
The unique 'gumdrop' hills and limestone formations of Guangxi province, often visible through clear skies.
Yangtze River
A crossing of Asia's longest river, often seen winding through the industrial and agricultural heartland of Hubei.
Yellow River
The cradle of Chinese civilization, recognizable by its distinct silty, golden-brown hue in Henan province.
Beijing Skyline
On a clear day, the vast urban sprawl and iconic skyscrapers of Beijing's CBD are visible during the final approach.
The right side is essential for the iconic Phang Nga Bay view at departure. For the best experience, book an afternoon flight to see the sun illuminate the Guilin karsts and the Yellow River. During the winter months, look for frozen sections of the rivers in Northern China. Note that smog over the North China Plain can sometimes obscure ground details, so higher altitudes over the south often provide the clearest views.
Andaman Sea Coastline
Aerial views of the white sands and turquoise waters of the Thai coast immediately following departure from Phuket.
Tenasserim Range
Rugged, forested mountain peaks forming the natural border between Thailand and Myanmar.
Qinling Mountains
A major east-west mountain range in Shaanxi Province that serves as a natural boundary between North and South China.
Taihang Mountains
Dramatic escarpments and deep canyons visible as the plane descends toward the North China Plain.
Western Great Wall
Occasional sightings of the Great Wall's fortifications snaking across the ridgelines northwest of Beijing.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare while flying north. This side is superior for viewing the rugged mountain geography of the Qinling range and the dramatic descent over the Taihang escarpment. Keep a sharp eye out about 20 minutes before landing for glimpses of the Great Wall near the mountainous periphery of Beijing.
Distance: 3,990 km (2,479 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 42 min
Departure: HKT (8.1132, 98.316902)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: International
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