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LGW destination photo
PEK destination photo

LGWPEK

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic transition from the Siberian steppes to the Gobi Desert, culminating in a spectacular descent over the mountain ridges and the Great Wall north of Beijing.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏘️

Central European Heartland

Early flight views of the dense urban clusters and agricultural patterns of Germany and Poland.

🏔️

Altai Mountains

Stunning views of the rugged, snow-dusted peaks where Russia, Mongolia, and China meet.

🏜️

Gobi Desert

The vast, desolate beauty of the Mongolian plateau featuring unique geological formations and dunes.

🧱

Great Wall of China

Visible during the descent into PEK as it snakes across the ridges of the Yan Mountains.

⛰️

Huairou District

Dramatic mountain scenery and reservoirs just before entering the Beijing metropolitan airspace.

The right side is essential for the arrival phase; the Great Wall is best spotted 15-25 minutes before landing. Ensure your window is clear of frost for the sunrise over the Gobi, which occurs mid-flight on most eastbound schedules.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

North Sea Coastline

Views of the intricate Dutch coastline and the Frisian Islands shortly after departure.

❄️

Siberian River Systems

Aerial perspective of the winding, often frozen Ob and Yenisey rivers in Northern Russia.

🌌

Northern Lights

On winter night flights, this side provides the best chance to witness the Aurora Borealis over the Arctic circle.

🏙️

Ulaanbaatar

Occasional distant views of the Mongolian capital surrounded by vast rolling hills.

Opt for the left side on overnight winter flights for a high probability of seeing the Aurora. During summer, this side experiences the 'Midnight Sun' effect when flying at high northern latitudes.

Top Activities in Beijing
Route Information

Distance: 8,165 km (5,073 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 36 min

Departure: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)

Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)

Route Type: International

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