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PEK → BRU
Which side of the plane to sit from Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing) to Brussels Airport (Brussels)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is slightly superior due to the spectacular views of Lake Baikal's deep blue waters and the prime positioning for observing the Aurora Borealis during the night-time crossing of the Siberian wilderness.
Lake Baikal
The world's deepest and oldest freshwater lake, visible as a massive, dark crescent in the Siberian landscape.
Aurora Borealis
On night flights, particularly in winter, the northern horizon often glows with the green and purple dancing lights of the North.
Siberian Taiga
Endless stretches of pristine coniferous forests and frozen river systems spanning thousands of miles.
Ural Mountains
The traditional geographic border between Asia and Europe, featuring rugged ridges and mining settlements.
Gobi Desert
The vast, arid expanse of southern Mongolia, showcasing unique sand dunes and rocky formations shortly after takeoff.
The right side offers the most dramatic natural scenery. Lake Baikal is the highlight; use the flight map to time its appearance roughly 2-3 hours after departure. For the Northern Lights, ensure your cabin window area is dark and look toward the northern horizon during the middle portion of the journey.
Great Wall of China
Look down shortly after takeoff from PEK to see the ancient fortifications winding through the mountains north of Beijing.
Moscow Cityscape
The sprawling, circular layout of the Russian capital is often visible to the south during the later stages of the flight.
Altai Mountains
High-altitude peaks at the intersection of Russia, Kazakhstan, China, and Mongolia.
European Farmlands
The geometric patchwork of Polish and German agricultural land as the plane prepares for its descent into Belgium.
Brussels Surroundings
Views of the Belgian capital's outskirts and the Atomium structure depending on the specific approach path.
Sit on the left for the best views of the setting sun as you chase the day westward. Keep your eyes peeled for the Great Wall within the first 20 minutes of flight. At night, the lights of major European cities like Warsaw and Berlin are more likely to appear on this side.
Distance: 7,945 km (4,937 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 21 min
Departure: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Arrival: BRU (50.9014015198, 4.48443984985)
Route Type: International
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