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PEK destination photo
XFN destination photo

PEKXFN

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft offers a front-row seat to the dramatic transition from the North China Plain to the rugged Taihang Mountains and the stunning Danjiangkou Reservoir.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏔️

Taihang Mountains

Stunning views of the sheer cliffs and deep valleys that define the boundary of the Loess Plateau.

🏜️

Loess Plateau Fringe

Observation of unique terrace farming and the distinct yellow-soil topography of western Henan.

💧

Danjiangkou Reservoir

The massive, turquoise waters of Asia's largest artificial freshwater lake near the flight's end.

⛰️

Wudang Mountains Distance

On very clear days, the distant silhouettes of the sacred Taoist peaks can be spotted to the southwest.

🌉

Yellow River Gorges

Views of the river as it cuts through more mountainous terrain compared to the eastern section.

The right side is significantly more scenic for terrain enthusiasts. Aim for an afternoon flight when the sun illuminates the western faces of the Taihang Mountains, creating deep shadows in the canyons. Keep your eyes peeled roughly 15-20 minutes before landing to see the massive Danjiangkou Reservoir, which is a highlight of this route.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🏙️

Beijing Skyline

Aerial perspective of the sprawling capital and the CBD skyscrapers during the initial climb.

🌾

North China Plain

A vast, endless patchwork of agricultural fields and rural settlements across Hebei and Henan.

🌊

The Yellow River

View the massive, silt-heavy 'Mother River' as it winds through the heart of China.

🏗️

Henan Urban Centers

Distant views of major industrial cities like Zhengzhou and their expanding urban infrastructure.

🛶

Han River Meanders

The sparkling waters of the Han River becoming visible as the flight prepares for its final descent.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side provides a better view of the Beijing city center if the flight departs to the south. During the winter, the frozen agricultural ponds and canals create interesting geometric patterns visible from this side.

Top Activities in Xiangfan
Route Information

Distance: 962 km (598 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min

Departure: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)

Arrival: XFN (32.1506, 112.291)

Route Type: Domestic

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