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LHW destination photo
TNA destination photo

LHWTNA

Which side of the plane to sit from Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport (Lanzhou) to Yaoqiang Airport (Jinan)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers spectacular views of the rugged Taihang Mountains, the dramatic winding paths of the Yellow River through the Loess Plateau, and a distant view of the sacred Mount Tai during the final approach into Jinan.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🐉

Yellow River Canyons

The river is seen carving deep, silty channels through the heart of the Loess Plateau, creating a dragon-like appearance.

⛰️

Taihang Mountain Range

Dramatic vertical cliffs and deep valleys that mark the boundary between the Shanxi Plateau and the North China Plain.

🏞️

Fen River Valley

The lush valley surrounding the Fen River as it flows through the historical heart of Shanxi province.

🏔️

Mount Tai (Taishan)

The most famous of China's Five Great Mountains is often visible to the south during the descent into Jinan.

🏙️

Jinan Springs Region

The dense urban fabric of the 'City of Springs' appearing just before touchdown at Yaoqiang Airport.

This is the premier side for geography lovers. For the best view of the Taihang cliffs, opt for a flight between 10 AM and 2 PM when the sun is high. About 20 minutes before landing, look southward to spot the silhouette of Mount Tai. In winter, the snow-capped Taihang peaks are particularly stunning.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏜️

Tengger Desert Fringe

Visibility of the arid landscapes and shifting sands where the desert meets the irrigation zones of Ningxia.

🌾

Loess Plateau Terraces

Unique agricultural patterns and deep erosion gullies characteristic of the Gansu and Shaanxi highlands.

🏙️

Shijiazhuang Cityscape

A clear view of the sprawling urban center of Hebei province as the flight transitions to the North China Plain.

🏭

Industrial Hubs

Large-scale industrial complexes and power plants visible along the Shaanxi-Shanxi border region.

🌊

Hetao Plain View

Distant views of the fertile plains nourished by the northern loop of the Yellow River.

Choose this side for softer lighting during morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. It is particularly interesting for those fascinated by the geometric patterns of terrace farming and the stark contrast between desert and irrigated land. Look out for sections of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall in Ningxia.

Top Activities in Jinan
Route Information

Distance: 1,212 km (753 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 37 min

Departure: LHW (36.5152015686, 103.620002747)

Arrival: TNA (36.857200622558594, 117.21600341796876)

Route Type: Domestic

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