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ORD destination photo
HKG destination photo

ORDHKG

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The Left Side is slightly favored for this ultra-long-haul route as it provides the best vantage point for the Aurora Borealis over the Arctic and superior views of the diverse topographical transitions from the Siberian taiga into the mist-shrouded mountains of central China.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🧊

Arctic Archipelago

Stunning views of the frozen islands and glaciers of northernmost Canada and Ellesmere Island.

🌌

Aurora Borealis

Frequent sightings of the Northern Lights while transiting the magnetic pole during the long night portions of the flight.

🌲

Siberian Taiga

An endless expanse of pristine coniferous forests and frozen river systems across central Russia.

🏜️

Gobi Desert

Aerial views of the vast, arid landscapes and shifting dunes of southern Mongolia and northern China.

⛰️

Qinling Mountains

The dramatic mountain range that acts as the natural boundary between North and South China.

For the best chance of seeing the Aurora, book a winter flight when the polar regions are in total darkness. Use a window blanket to block cabin light reflections. On the descent into Hong Kong, this side often sees the rugged hills of the New Territories.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🌊

Lake Superior

The flight usually passes directly over or near the majestic northern shores of the largest Great Lake.

❄️

North Pole

The unique perspective of flying over the sea ice at the very top of the world.

⛰️

Altai Mountains

Impressive snow-capped peaks where Russia, China, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan meet.

🏯

Northern China Plain

A massive agricultural heartland and the possibility of spotting the Great Wall near Beijing.

🏗️

Pearl River Delta

The incredible urban density of the Greater Bay Area, including views of Shenzhen's skyscrapers.

The Right Side is excellent for viewing the sunrise when flying westbound. On the final approach to HKG, particularly when landing on Runway 07L, this side offers a spectacular view of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and the Lantau Island coastline.

Top Activities in Hong Kong
Route Information

Distance: 12,523 km (7,781 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 14 hrs 44 min

Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Arrival: HKG (22.308901, 113.915001)

Route Type: International

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