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HLD â HRB
Which side of the plane to sit from Dongshan Airport (Hailar) to Taiping Airport (Harbin)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the iconic meandering rivers of the Hulunbuir Grassland and the dense forest canopy of the Greater Khingan Mountains without direct sun glare on most daytime flights.
Hulunbuir Grasslands
Infinite stretches of the world's best-preserved grasslands visible shortly after takeoff from Hailar.
Morigele River Meanders
Watch for the incredibly complex, winding patterns of the 'First Meandering River' in the north.
Greater Khingan Range
Aerial perspective of the dense larch and birch forests covering the Daxing'anling mountains.
Nenjiang River Basin
Large water systems and tributaries that define the border between Inner Mongolia and Heilongjiang.
Songnen Plain
The transition into vast agricultural grids as the flight approaches the fertile plains of Harbin.
Sit on the left for softer lighting during morning and afternoon flights. In winter, this side provides the best views of the snow-covered 'Silver Highlands'. Keep your camera ready about 15 minutes after takeoff for the best river loops.
Hailar Cityscape
A clear view of the Hailar urban district and the Ewenki Autonomous Banner immediately after departure.
Southern Khingan Slopes
Views of the gentler southern ridges where the mountains meet the inner Mongolian plateau.
Zhalong Wetlands
Distant views of the marshlands near Qiqihar, known for being a major habitat for red-crowned cranes.
Harbin Skyline
Excellent views of Harbin's modern high-rises and the Sun Island area during the final approach.
Songhua River
The massive Songhua River and its various bridges as the plane lines up for the Taiping Airport runway.
The right side is excellent for city enthusiasts on the final descent into Harbin. However, be aware that on afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, which may cause glare and make photography difficult.
Distance: 626 km (389 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 3 min
Departure: HLD (49.2050018311, 119.824996948)
Arrival: HRB (45.6234016418457, 126.25)
Route Type: Domestic
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