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PEK destination photo
GVA destination photo

PEKGVA

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior primarily for the spectacular final descent into Geneva, offering iconic views of the Swiss Alps, the Mont Blanc massif, and the full length of Lake Geneva.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
⛰️

Altai Mountains

Dramatic views of the rugged, snow-capped peaks where China, Mongolia, and Russia meet.

🌾

Eurasian Steppe

Infinite horizons of the world's largest steppe region across Central Asia.

🏔️

The Swiss Alps

As the plane enters Swiss airspace, the jagged peaks of the Bernese Oberland and Valais Alps appear.

💧

Lake Geneva

A stunning crescent-shaped blue lake that dominates the view during the final approach.

⛲

Jet d'Eau

On low-altitude descent, look for Geneva's famous 140-meter tall water fountain in the harbor.

Book a window seat well behind the wing for unobstructed photos of the Alps. Since this westward flight often follows the sun, the left side will be brighter; use the window shade during the mid-flight cruise over the Steppes to reduce glare, but keep it open for the final 45 minutes of the flight for the best mountain scenery.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🏜️

Gobi Desert

Ancient geological formations and vast sand dunes visible shortly after departure from Beijing.

🌊

Lake Baikal

Depending on the specific airway, the northern tip of this massive, deep lake may be visible.

⚒️

Ural Mountains

The traditional boundary between Asia and Europe, featuring rolling forested ridges.

🌲

Siberian Taiga

Dense, dark green coniferous forests that stretch for thousands of miles across the Russian wilderness.

⛰️

Jura Mountains

The sub-alpine limestone ridges that form the border between France and Switzerland just north of Geneva.

The right side is the 'cool' side of the plane on this route, as you'll be facing north away from the direct sun, making it easier to see ground details in Russia and Northern Europe without eye strain. It is the best side for viewing the Gobi Desert early in the flight.

Top Activities in Geneva
Route Information

Distance: 8,200 km (5,095 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 39 min

Departure: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)

Arrival: GVA (46.23809814453125, 6.108950138092041)

Route Type: International

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