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KMG → CGO
Which side of the plane to sit from Kunming Changshui International Airport (Kunming) to Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (Zhengzhou)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the dramatic Qinling Mountain range and favorable lighting for afternoon flights traveling northeast.
Qinling Mountains
The massive geographic divide between North and South China featuring rugged peaks and deep valleys.
Chongqing Outskirts
Aerial views of the sprawling mountainous urban development and the confluence of major rivers.
Plateau Sunset
On late afternoon flights, this side receives the golden hour glow over the highland terrain.
Wei River Basin
The fertile plains that served as the cradle of ancient Chinese civilization as you approach the north.
Choose the left side for afternoon departures to enjoy the sunset without direct glare. Keep your camera ready about 40-50 minutes into the flight for the most dramatic mountain transitions. In winter, look for snow-capped peaks along the Qinling range which provide incredible contrast.
Yunnan Karst Topography
Unique limestone formations and cone-shaped hills visible shortly after takeoff from Kunming.
Yangtze River Crossing
The flight path typically crosses the upper reaches of the Yangtze, showing its winding path through the mountains.
Mount Song
One of the Five Sacred Mountains of China and home to the Shaolin Temple, visible during the descent into Zhengzhou.
Central Plains Mosaic
The geometric patterns of Henan's intensive agriculture create a colorful tapestry during the final approach.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the sun's glare. It provides the best perspective of Mount Song (Songshan) as the plane aligns for landing at CGO. Watch for the distinctive red soil of Yunnan immediately after takeoff before the terrain transitions to the greener Jianghan Plain.
Distance: 1,483 km (921 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 59 min
Departure: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)
Arrival: CGO (34.519699096699995, 113.841003418)
Route Type: Domestic
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