Loading map...

NAO destination photo
KMG destination photo

NAOKMG

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic transition from the Sichuan Basin to the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, including the spectacular confluence of rivers at Yibin and the deep canyons of the Jinsha River.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
💧

Yibin River Confluence

The dramatic point where the Min River and Jinsha River merge to officially become the Yangtze River.

⛰️

Wumeng Mountains

Stunning views of the high-altitude ridges and deep valleys as the terrain rises sharply into Yunnan.

🪨

Jinsha River Canyons

Deep V-shaped river valleys carved into the plateau, showing the raw power of geological erosion.

🔴

Dongchuan Red Lands

If the flight path is favorable, catch glimpses of the famous oxidized red soil fields near Kunming.

✈️

Changshui Approach

A thrilling view of the rugged mountain ridges that surround the high-altitude Kunming airport.

The right side is ideal for mid-day or afternoon flights to capture the depth of the canyons. Keep your camera ready about 30-40 minutes into the flight for the Yibin area. During autumn and winter, the air is clearer, providing much better views of the distant high peaks of the Hengduan range to the far west.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Jialing River Meanders

Aerial views of the winding Jialing River as the flight departs from Nanchong's hilly landscape.

🚜

Sichuan Basin Farmlands

Intricate patterns of terraced agriculture and small villages typical of the southern Sichuan region.

🌉

Luzhou Urban Area

The dense urban sprawl of Luzhou situated at the junction of the Tuo River and the Yangtze.

☁️

Zhaotong Plateau

High-altitude clouds hanging over the rugged karst topography of northeastern Yunnan.

🏙️

Eastern Kunming

The expanding suburbs and industrial zones of eastern Kunming during the final approach.

Sit on the left for early morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. This side is better for seeing the dense river networks of southern Sichuan. On the final descent into KMG, look for the sharp contrast between the red soil and the green eucalyptus forests of the Yunnan plateau.

Top Activities in Kunming
Route Information

Distance: 708 km (440 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 11 min

Departure: NAO (30.79545, 106.1626)

Arrival: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.