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PEK → AMS
Which side of the plane to sit from Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the most iconic landmark on this route, Lake Baikal, and provides the best conditions for spotting the Aurora Borealis on winter night flights while avoiding direct sun glare.
Lake Baikal
The 'Pearl of Siberia' is clearly visible as a massive, crescent-shaped blue expanse, particularly stunning when frozen in winter.
Siberian Taiga
The world's largest coniferous forest stretches endlessly, intersected by winding, silver-colored frozen rivers.
Aurora Borealis
On night flights during winter months, the right side faces north, offering high chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
The North Sea Coast
As the plane approaches the Netherlands, enjoy views of the Danish peninsula and the Frisian Islands.
The right side is generally the 'shadow side' on this westward route, making it much better for photography. Look out for Lake Baikal approximately 2.5 to 3 hours after departure from Beijing. If your flight is during the winter and travels at night, keep your cabin lights off and eyes peeled on the northern horizon for green streaks of the Aurora.
Gobi Desert & Steppe
The vast, arid landscapes of inner Mongolia and the Gobi Desert provide striking textures and colors shortly after takeoff.
Ural Mountains
The traditional boundary between Asia and Europe appears as a long, jagged spine running north to south.
Northern European Cities
On clear days, the urban layouts of Warsaw, Berlin, and the dense German industrial heartland are visible.
Dutch Polders
The intricate geometric patterns of reclaimed land and canals become highly detailed during the final descent into Schiphol.
On daytime flights heading west, the sun will be on the left side for the majority of the journey. Be prepared for significant glare; use the window shade to manage brightness. This side is better for viewing the specialized hydraulic engineering and polders of the Netherlands as you approach Amsterdam from the east.
Distance: 7,827 km (4,863 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 12 min
Departure: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Arrival: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)
Route Type: International
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