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SJW → XIY
Which side of the plane to sit from Shijiazhuang Daguocun International Airport (Shijiazhuang) to Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (Xi'an)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior view of the dramatic Loess Plateau geomorphology and the intricate network of terraced fields and ancient cave dwellings.
Luliang Mountains
Dramatic granite peaks and deep forested valleys of western Shanxi.
Loess Plateau
Incredible 'earth forest' erosion patterns and deep silt canyons unique to this region.
Traditional Yaodongs
Ancient earth-sheltered cave dwellings visible in the terraced hills of Shaanxi.
Infrastructure Marvels
High-speed rail lines and bridges spanning deep loess valleys.
Wei River
The wide, silty river that defines the Guanzhong Plain during the final approach.
Xi'an North Approach
Expansive views of the Weihe wetlands and the growing northern suburbs of Xi'an.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and see the plateau's textures in high relief. Look specifically for the terraced farming patterns that look like topographical maps from above. During the descent into XIY, watch for the ancient Hanyangling Museum site near the airport perimeter.
Shijiazhuang Skyline
Aerial view of the Hebei provincial capital and its industrial grid shortly after departure.
Southern Taihang Range
The rugged eastern edge of the mountains where the North China Plain meets the highlands.
Fen River Valley
A glimpse of the major river system flowing through central Shanxi province.
Yellow River Sanmenxia
Distant views of the massive reservoirs and the historic Sanmenxia dam area.
Qinling Mountains
The massive natural boundary between North and South China appearing on the southern horizon.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to enjoy the soft lighting over the Taihang foothills. Keep an eye out for the vast industrial complexes of Shanxi during the mid-flight segment. During winter, look for the snow-capped peaks of the Qinling range in the far distance as you enter Shaanxi airspace.
Distance: 682 km (424 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 8 min
Departure: SJW (38.28070068359375, 114.6969985961914)
Arrival: XIY (34.447102, 108.751999)
Route Type: Domestic
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