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KMG → NKG
Which side of the plane to sit from Kunming Changshui International Airport (Kunming) to Nanjing Lukou Airport (Nanjing)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the winding Yangtze River and the unique karst topography of Southwest China as you move towards the dense delta region.
Dianchi Lake
Catch a glimpse of the 'Sparkling Pearl of the Highland' immediately after taking off from KMG.
Guizhou Karst Peaks
Spectacular views of thousands of conical limestone hills that define the southern Chinese landscape.
Dongting Lake View
On clear days, the vast expanse of China's second-largest freshwater lake is visible to the southeast.
Yangtze River Meanders
The route often parallels the Yangtze, offering long-duration views of the river's winding path.
Nanjing Skyline
During the descent into NKG, enjoy views of the Purple Mountain and the urban density of the ancient capital.
The right side is the prime choice for seeing the Yangtze River. Aim for a mid-day flight to minimize glare. As the plane descends into Nanjing Lukou, look for the complex network of canals and the massive bridges that link the north and south banks of the river. Seasonal fog is common in winter, so spring or autumn offer the clearest visibility.
Wumeng Mountains
Witness the rugged, high-altitude terrain of the eastern Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau shortly after departure.
Guiyang Cityscape
A distant view of the mountain city of Guiyang nestled between steep green hills.
Fanjing Mountain Range
Look for the sharp, UNESCO-listed peaks of northeast Guizhou emerging through the clouds.
Yangtze River Crossings
Observe numerous massive bridges spanning the Yangtze as the flight enters Hubei and Anhui provinces.
Anhui Farmlands
The landscape transforms into a patchwork of agricultural fields and water channels as you approach Nanjing.
The left side is excellent for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. During the initial climb from Kunming, keep your eyes peeled for the deep valleys and red soil characteristic of the Yunnan plateau. For sunset flights, this side will provide dramatic lighting over the mountainous horizon.
Distance: 1,722 km (1,070 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 18 min
Departure: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)
Arrival: NKG (31.742000579833984, 118.86199951171876)
Route Type: Domestic
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