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LXA → XIY
Which side of the plane to sit from Lhasa Gonggar Airport (Lhasa) to Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (Xi'an)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular views of the Yarlung Tsangpo River valley upon takeoff and a front-row seat to the dramatic Qinling Mountain range during the descent into Xi'an.
Yarlung Tsangpo River
Follow the winding path of the world's highest major river as it snakes through the valley floor near Lhasa.
Minya Konka (Gongga Shan)
The 'King of Sichuan Mountains' is often visible on the southern horizon, standing tall as the highest peak in the region.
Qinling Mountains
Experience the dramatic crossing of China's natural north-south dividing line, featuring dense forests and deep valleys.
Xi'an Southern Districts
During the final approach, the right side often provides a clearer view of the sprawling urban layout of southern Xi'an.
For the best experience, book an early morning flight to see the sunrise over the Himalayas. Avoid seats directly over the wing (usually rows 15-25) to ensure you have a clear view of the deep river canyons and the Qinling ridges. Winter flights offer the most stunning snow-covered mountain scenery.
Nyainqêntanglha Mountains
View the jagged, snow-capped peaks that dominate the northern horizon of the Tibetan Plateau shortly after takeoff.
Namtso Lake
On clear days, the turquoise waters of one of Tibet's most sacred high-altitude lakes can be seen in the distance.
Northern Plateau Panoramas
Expansive views of the high-altitude desert and alpine meadows that characterize the northern reaches of the plateau.
Loess Plateau Transition
Observe the unique terraced landscapes and yellow-earth canyons as the flight crosses into Gansu and Shaanxi provinces.
Sit on the left for consistent lighting during afternoon flights, as the sun will be on the opposite side. This side is better for spotting the high-altitude lakes and the broader, flatter expanses of the northern plateau.
Distance: 1,776 km (1,104 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 22 min
Departure: LXA (29.2978000641, 90.9119033813)
Arrival: XIY (34.447102, 108.751999)
Route Type: Domestic
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