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PEK → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the transition from the Pacific coastline into the massive Canadian Great Lakes system, providing iconic views of the Detroit skyline upon arrival.
Sea of Okhotsk
Views of the cold, deep blue waters off the eastern coast of Russia before heading toward the Bering Sea.
Canadian Boreal Forest
The endless green carpet and thousands of small glacial lakes characteristic of the Canadian Shield.
Great Slave Lake
One of the world's deepest and largest lakes, located in the Northwest Territories of Canada.
Hudson Bay
The massive inland sea, often filled with drifting ice floes even into the early summer months.
Detroit Skyline
A spectacular view of the Renaissance Center and the Detroit River during the final descent into DTW.
For the best experience, sit on the right side to catch the sunrise over the Canadian wilderness. This side provides the best views of the Great Lakes (Superior and Huron) as you descend toward Michigan. Keep your camera ready as you pass over the Detroit River for a clear shot of the city's architecture.
Siberian Tundra
Aerial views of the remote, frozen expanses of Far East Russia and the Sakha Republic.
Kamchatka Volcanoes
A chance to spot the snow-capped, conical active volcanoes along Russia's Pacific Rim.
Arctic Archipelago
Stunning views of the desolate, ice-choked islands of Northern Canada during the trans-polar crossing.
Brooks Range
The rugged, untouched mountain peaks of Northern Alaska as the flight enters North American airspace.
Aurora Borealis
On night flights, this side faces north, offering the best chance to witness the Northern Lights over the magnetic pole.
Choose the left side primarily if you are flying during the winter months and want to hunt for the Aurora Borealis. Ensure your window is clean and cabin lights are dimmed for the best visibility. This side remains quite dark for long periods during the polar crossing.
Distance: 10,647 km (6,616 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 12 hrs 32 min
Departure: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: International
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