Loading map...
SPN → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Saipan International Airport (Saipan) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior mix of oceanic island chains, the rugged Shandong coastline, and a scenic approach over the mountains north of Beijing.
Northern Mariana Chain
Excellent views of Saipan's northern coastline and the volcanic islands to the north shortly after takeoff.
Ryukyu Archipelago
Possible distant sightings of the Japanese island chain, including Okinawa, depending on the airway.
Shandong Peninsula
Clear views of the rugged coastline, the city of Qingdao, and the Yellow Sea.
Bohai Bay
A view of the busy shipping lanes and the coastal wetlands near the Tangshan region.
Yan Mountains
Dramatic views of the rugged mountain ranges north of Beijing during the final approach vectors.
Sit on the right for the best chance to see the remote Northern Mariana island chain immediately after takeoff. As the flight approaches Mainland China, the right side provides the best coastal views of the Shandong Peninsula. During the final approach to PEK, you may catch glimpses of the Great Wall segments winding through the mountains if the flight path tracks from the north.
Philippine Sea
A vast expanse of deep blue ocean shortly after departing the Marianas.
Yangtze River Delta
Distant views of the massive urban sprawl around the Shanghai and Ningbo region.
Tianjin Urban Area
The sprawling metropolis and industrial hubs of Tianjin during the initial descent.
Choose the left side for sunset views if flying in the late afternoon. During the descent into Beijing, keep an eye out for the massive urban cluster of Tianjin and the southern residential districts of Beijing. This side is typically better for seeing the city lights if arriving after dark.
Distance: 3,959 km (2,460 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 39 min
Departure: SPN (15.119000000000002, 145.729004)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.