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PEK → HLD
Which side of the plane to sit from Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing) to Dongshan Airport (Hailar)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an expansive view of the Mongolian Plateau's interior, featuring the iconic Xilingol grasslands and the best angles of the Hailar River during the final approach.
Yanshan Range
Rugged mountain peaks immediately north of Beijing visible shortly after takeoff from PEK.
Great Wall Fragments
Possible sightings of ancient defensive fortifications snaking along the ridges of the northern mountains.
Xilingol Grassland
Infinite stretches of the Mongolian steppe characterized by vibrant deep greens during the summer months.
Dalinor Lake
A massive soda lake that appears as a blue jewel amidst the surrounding plains on clear days.
Hulunbuir Steppe
One of the world's most beautiful grasslands, visible during the descent into Hailar airport.
Choose a window seat on the left for evening flights to witness the sunset over the Inner Mongolian steppe. In winter, the entire landscape turns into a stark, beautiful white desert. Keep an eye out for the meandering Hailar River as the plane begins its final descent; its iconic 'S' curves are most prominent on this side.
Miyun Reservoir
Beijing's primary water source, often visible as a large blue body of water shortly after departure.
Chengde Highlands
High-altitude terrain bordering the Hebei and Inner Mongolia transition zone.
Greater Khingan Fringes
The southern edges of China's largest forest range, appearing as dark patches of dense vegetation.
Horqin Sandy Land
Patches of sandy terrain showcasing the unique ecosystem of the eastern steppe transition.
Meandering Rivers
Complex, silver river patterns that glisten in the sunlight as the flight progresses northward.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun while photographing. It offers a superior view of the transition between the mountainous Chengde area and the flat grasslands. Look for the massive wind farms that dot the landscape between the mountains and the plateau.
Distance: 1,046 km (650 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 24 min
Departure: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Arrival: HLD (49.2050018311, 119.824996948)
Route Type: Domestic
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