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KMG → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Kunming Changshui International Airport (Kunming) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic transition from the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau to the majestic Taihang Mountains, providing spectacular rugged terrain and mountain-range views throughout the flight.
Yunnan Highlands
Unique red-earth geography and rugged mountain ridges immediately following takeoff from Kunming.
Qinling Mountains
The massive natural boundary between North and South China, featuring impressive peaks and deep valleys.
Taihang Mountains
Dramatic cliffs and steep escarpments that define the edge of the Loess Plateau as you approach Hebei.
Western Hills
The scenic mountain backdrop of Beijing, including views of the Fragrant Hills during the descent.
Summer Palace Area
Depending on the approach path, you may catch a glimpse of Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill from a distance.
Sit on the left for the best mountain photography. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the Taihang Mountains. During winter, look for snow-capped peaks in the Qinling range. Choose a seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat haze affecting your mountain shots.
Guizhou Karst
Iconic limestone peak forests and rolling green hills typical of Southwest China's unique topography.
Yangtze River
Potential views of the winding Yangtze River as the flight crosses from the southwest into Central China.
North China Plain
A vast, flat expanse of agricultural land that creates a patchwork quilt effect across Henan and Hebei.
Zhengzhou Hub
Aerial views of one of China's most important railway and industrial hubs mid-way through the flight.
Beijing CBD
On a clear day and if the flight approaches from the south, you might see the China Zun tower and the central skyline.
The right side is better for viewing the expansive plains and the Yangtze River. Late afternoon flights can offer beautiful 'Golden Hour' lighting over the North China Plain, though glare can be an issue. If Beijing is under a southerly wind, the right side often gets a better view of the urban sprawl during the final turn toward the runway.
Distance: 2,095 km (1,302 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 48 min
Departure: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: Domestic
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