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SJW → LHW
Which side of the plane to sit from Shijiazhuang Daguocun International Airport (Shijiazhuang) to Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport (Lanzhou)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic views of the Loess Plateau's unique vertical erosion and the rugged peaks of the Liupan Mountains during the final approach phase.
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Taihang Mountains
Dramatic limestone ridges and deep canyons visible shortly after takeoff from Shijiazhuang.
Loess Plateau Terraces
Intricate agricultural patterns carved into the world's most extensive silt deposit area.
Yellow River Meanders
The river's iconic silt-heavy waters snaking through the high-altitude landscape of Shanxi and Shaanxi.
Liupan Mountain
A significant geographic barrier featuring lush greenery contrasting with the surrounding arid plateau.
Tianshui/Pingliang Basin
Distant views of ancient Silk Road valley settlements nestled between steep loess hills.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the southern sun. The lighting in the late afternoon is particularly stunning as it creates deep shadows within the deep-cut Loess canyons, highlighting the region's unique geography. Keep your camera ready about 30-40 minutes after takeoff for the best plateau patterns.
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A clear view of the industrial and historic capital of Shanxi province during the initial cruise phase.
Ordos Fringe
The transition zone where the high plateau meets the semi-arid grasslands of the north.
Ningxia Border Crossing
Views of the wide, shallow bends of the Yellow River near the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.
Arid Landforms
Unique 'Yardang-style' formations and wind-eroded ridges as you enter Gansu airspace.
LHW Descent
A close-up view of the reddish, rugged mountains surrounding the Zhongchuan airport area.
The right side is ideal for spotting the vast urban sprawl of northern Chinese cities and the northern bends of the Yellow River. During winter, this side often provides clearer views of snow-dusted plateau peaks. During the descent into LHW, the arid, reddish soil typical of the Gansu region is most prominent on this side.
Book Hotels in LanzhouDistance: 997 km (620 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 40 min
Departure: SJW (38.28070068359375, 114.6969985961914)
Arrival: LHW (36.5152015686, 103.620002747)
Route Type: Domestic
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