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LGW → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from London Gatwick Airport (London) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
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.
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.
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.
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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