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LHR → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from London Heathrow Airport (London) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the best chance to see the vast Siberian wilderness and the breathtaking expanse of Lake Baikal, the world's deepest lake, along with potential Aurora Borealis views in winter.
North Sea Crossing
Aerial views of the busy shipping lanes and offshore wind farms shortly after departing London.
Ural Mountains
The ancient mountain range that serves as the natural boundary between Europe and Asia.
Siberian Taiga
Endless stretches of pristine coniferous forests and winding river systems across Northern Russia.
Lake Baikal
The highlight of the route; a massive, crescent-shaped rift lake that is stunning even from 35,000 feet.
Aurora Borealis
On night flights during winter months, this side faces north toward the magnetic pole, offering views of the Northern Lights.
Choose a seat well away from the wing for unobstructed views of Lake Baikal, which typically appears about two-thirds into the journey. If flying in winter, keep your window dim and eyes peeled for the green glow of the Aurora over the Russian Arctic.
European Capitals
Potential views of Berlin or Warsaw depending on the specific airway used during the initial cruise.
Altai Mountains
Dramatic, snow-capped peaks where Russia, China, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan meet.
Gobi Desert
The vast, shadows-swept dunes and rocky plateaus of Southern Mongolia and Northern China.
The Great Wall
Visible as a faint line snaking across the mountain ridges during the final descent into Beijing.
Eurasian Sunrise
Spectacular sunrise views over the high-altitude plateaus as the plane enters Chinese airspace.
The right side is superior for photography during the descent into PEK. Look for the Great Wall in the rugged terrain north of Beijing approximately 20-30 minutes before landing. This side also catches the first light of dawn on eastbound overnight flights.
Distance: 8,153 km (5,066 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 36 min
Departure: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: International
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