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PEK → CAI
Which side of the plane to sit from Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing) to Cairo International Airport (Cairo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior sequence of geological and historical landmarks, ranging from the high Pamir mountain ranges to the fertile Mesopotamian plains and the iconic Suez Canal during the descent.
Gobi Desert
Expansive views of the reddish dunes and arid plains of Inner Mongolia and Gansu.
Pamir Mountains
Stunning vistas of the 'Roof of the World' with permanent glaciers and 7,000-meter peaks.
South Caspian Coast
The lush, green northern forests of Iran contrasted against the deep blue of the Caspian Sea.
Mesopotamian Plains
The winding paths of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers as they flow through the cradle of civilization.
The Dead Sea
A shimmering, turquoise-blue body of water sitting at the lowest point on Earth's surface.
Suez Canal
A clear view of the thin blue artery filled with massive container ships cutting through the desert.
For the best photography, choose a seat forward of the wing. As the flight progresses west, the left side remains south-facing, providing consistent natural lighting during daytime hours without the harsh direct glare that often affects the right side in the afternoon. Watch for the Dead Sea approximately 45 minutes before landing.
Tien Shan Range
The 'Heavenly Mountains' offer jagged, snow-covered ridges stretching across the horizon.
Central Caspian
Look for offshore oil platforms and the vast expanse of the world's largest inland lake.
Mount Ararat
The legendary dormant volcanic cone in Eastern Turkey, often visible on northern flight corridors.
Mediterranean Coast
Beautiful views of the Levantine coastline and the deep blue Mediterranean Sea.
Nile Delta
A spectacular aerial view of the lush green fan-shaped delta emerging from the desert sands.
New Cairo
A bird's-eye view of Egypt's massive urban expansion and modern architectural projects on approach.
The right side is ideal for sunset views if departing Beijing in the late afternoon. This side also offers the most dramatic view of the Nile Delta's greenery meeting the Mediterranean. Keep your eyes peeled during the final 15 minutes of the flight, as the pilot may bank over the Nile, offering a panoramic view of the Cairo metropolis.
Distance: 7,533 km (4,681 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 52 min
Departure: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Arrival: CAI (30.12190055847168, 31.40559959411621)
Route Type: International
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