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KHN → XIY
Which side of the plane to sit from Nanchang Changbei International Airport (Nanchang) to Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (Xi'an)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic views of the Qinling Mountains, which serve as the massive geographic and climatic divide between North and South China, especially stunning during the descent into Xi'an.
Qinling Mountains
A spectacular view of high-altitude peaks and deep valleys that separate the humid south from the arid north.
Shennongjia Forest
Dense, mountainous terrain known for its biodiversity and status as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Nanchang Cityscape
An aerial view of the Gan River and the rapid urban development of the Jiangxi provincial capital shortly after takeoff.
Danjiangkou Reservoir
The massive, clear turquoise waters of the source for the South-to-North Water Diversion Project.
Southern Shaanxi Basins
The picturesque Hanzhong and Ankang regions where traditional farming meets rugged mountain foothills.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun glare. The approach into Xi'an typically passes over the Qinling range from the south; have your camera ready 20-30 minutes before landing for the most rugged peak views. During winter, these mountains are often snow-capped, providing a stark contrast to the plains below.
Poyang Lake
China's largest freshwater lake is visible to the northeast shortly after departing Nanchang.
Wuhan Metropolis
A view of the massive tri-city urban area where the Yangtze and Han rivers converge.
Han River Meanders
Watch the longest tributary of the Yangtze wind its way through the central Chinese plains.
Central Plains Agriculture
A patchwork quilt of agricultural fields across Henan and Hubei provinces, changing colors with the seasons.
Wei River Valley
The historic cradle of Chinese civilization visible as the aircraft aligns for its final approach into Xi'an.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights as the sun is on the opposite side, providing clear, even lighting for photos of the Central Plains. This side offers a better perspective of the vast river systems and the urban sprawl of the Yangtze River Middle Reaches economic belt.
Distance: 918 km (570 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 32 min
Departure: KHN (28.864999771118164, 115.9000015258789)
Arrival: XIY (34.447102, 108.751999)
Route Type: Domestic
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