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PEK → SYX
Which side of the plane to sit from Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing) to Sanya Phoenix International Airport (Sanya)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior for this route as it offers a dramatic perspective of the Qinling Mountains and, most importantly, provides the best chance to see the iconic 108-meter Nanshan Guanyin statue standing in the sea during the final approach into Sanya.
Qinling Mountains
The natural boundary between North and South China, offering views of rugged, high-altitude ridges often dusted with snow.
Karst Topography
As the flight enters southern China, look for the unique 'gumdrop' limestone mountains characteristic of the Guangxi region.
Pearl River Delta
The dense urban clusters of Guangzhou and Foshan are often visible as you transition toward the South China Sea.
Nanshan Guanyin Statue
The crowning jewel of the flight; this massive white statue emerges from the sea during the final approach to SYX.
Sanya Bay and Phoenix Island
A panoramic view of Sanya's luxury resorts, the curved bay, and the futuristic architecture of Phoenix Island.
The right side is highly recommended for the descent. To see the Nanshan Guanyin statue, look out about 5-10 minutes before touchdown; the pilots often circle the statue during the approach into Runway 08. Afternoon flights are ideal on this side for soft, golden-hour lighting on the mountains and the coastline.
Beijing Skyline
Upon departure, enjoy views of the sprawling Beijing metropolis and the CBD skyscrapers if taking off towards the south.
Yangtze River
A massive silver ribbon cutting through central China, typically visible near the Hubei and Hunan border.
Poyang Lake
Depending on the specific air corridor, the vast expanse of China's largest freshwater lake may be visible to the east.
Hainan East Coast
As the plane begins its descent, the turquoise waters and white sand beaches of Wenchang and Qionghai come into view.
South China Sea Sunrise
On early morning flights, this side offers a spectacular view of the sun rising over the horizon of the Pacific.
For the best experience on the left side, book a morning flight to catch the sunrise over the ocean. In the afternoon, the sun will be on the opposite side, providing better lighting for photography of the Hainan coastline. Use a window seat away from the wing to fully capture the scale of the Yangtze River crossing.
Distance: 2,517 km (1,564 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 21 min
Departure: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Arrival: SYX (18.30290031433105, 109.41200256347656)
Route Type: Domestic
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