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KMG → VTE
Which side of the plane to sit from Kunming Changshui International Airport (Kunming) to Wattay International Airport (Vientiane)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular views of Dianchi Lake immediately after takeoff, followed by a parallel view of the winding Mekong River and the misty peaks of Northern Laos.
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Dianchi Lake
The vast 'Sparkling Pearl of the Highland' located right next to Kunming's urban center.
Red River Valley
Aerial views of the deep valleys and terraced hillsides of southern Yunnan Province.
Mekong River
The mighty Lancang-Mekong River snakes through the mountainous terrain between China and Laos.
Luang Prabang Range
Stunning limestone karsts and jungle-covered peaks that define the Northern Laos landscape.
Thai Borderline
The Mekong River serves as the international border between Laos and Thailand during the final approach.
The right side is superior for sunset flights as the sun dips behind the Luang Prabang mountains. For the best view of the Mekong River bordering Thailand, stay alert during the final 15 minutes of the flight. Be aware that seasonal agricultural haze in February and March can significantly reduce visibility over Laos.
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Kunming Cityscape
Panoramic views of the 'Spring City' as the plane climbs south from Changshui.
Fuxian Lake
One of China's deepest freshwater lakes, appearing as a deep blue jewel to the east.
Ailao Mountains
Dense, rugged mountain ridges that form a natural barrier in southern Yunnan.
Nam Ngum Reservoir
A massive man-made lake in Laos featuring hundreds of tiny islands.
Pha That Luang
The golden stupa of Vientiane may be visible on a clear approach to the airport.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is better for spotting the deep blue waters of Fuxian Lake shortly after leaving the Kunming area. Watch for the dramatic change from the high Yunnan plateau to the lower, tropical valleys of Laos.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for LaosDistance: 792 km (492 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 19 min
Departure: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)
Arrival: VTE (17.988300323500003, 102.56300354)
Route Type: International
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