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LHW → SJW
Which side of the plane to sit from Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport (Lanzhou) to Shijiazhuang Daguocun International Airport (Shijiazhuang)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for witnessing the dramatic transition from the arid Loess Plateau to the lush peaks of the Liupan Mountains and the spectacular descent over the Taihang Mountain range into the North China Plain.
Yellow River Bends
Multiple sightings of the sediment-rich Yellow River as it meanders through the deeply eroded Loess Plateau.
Loess Plateau Gullies
Stunning aerial views of 'Yuan' and 'Liang' landforms, featuring intricate, tree-like erosion patterns in the soil.
Liupan Mountains
The green peaks of the Liupan range provide a sharp, beautiful contrast to the surrounding yellow-brown landscape.
Taihang Mountain Wall
The 'Dragon of the East,' a massive mountain wall that marks the end of the highlands and the beginning of the plains.
Lanzhou Cityscape
If the takeoff path turns south, you can see the narrow city of Lanzhou squeezed between mountains and the river.
The right side is best for sunset flights, as the low sun highlights the shadows in the loess gullies and mountain ridges. Aim for a seat behind the wing to capture the dramatic descent over the Taihang cliffs.
Mu Us Desert Edges
Visible views of the southern fringes of the Mu Us Desert, showing the contrast between sandy dunes and yellow loess.
Helan Mountains
On clear days, the distant silhouette of the Helan Mountains can be seen standing as a barrier against the Gobi sands.
Ordos Plateau
A high-altitude view of the vast, dry plateau region characterized by seasonal salt lakes and arid terrain.
Northern Taihang Ridges
The northern section of the Taihang range reveals deep canyons and sharp limestone cliffs during the descent phase.
To avoid harsh glare when flying eastbound, the left side is preferable during midday flights. Keep an eye out for the yellow-to-green transition as you move toward the Hebei province border.
Distance: 997 km (620 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 40 min
Departure: LHW (36.5152015686, 103.620002747)
Arrival: SJW (38.28070068359375, 114.6969985961914)
Route Type: Domestic
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