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SWA → NKG
Which side of the plane to sit from Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport (Shantou) to Nanjing Lukou Airport (Nanjing)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior for this route as it offers sweeping views of the East China Sea coastline during the initial climb and spectacular views of Taihu Lake and the Yangtze River Delta during the descent into Nanjing.
East China Sea Coast
Distant views of the winding coastline and estuaries along the Fujian and Zhejiang provinces.
Zhejiang Urban Clusters
Bird's eye view of the rapidly developing cities like Jinhua and Quzhou.
Taihu Lake
One of China's largest freshwater lakes, appearing as a massive blue mirror shortly before landing.
Yangtze River Delta
The intricate network of canals, ships, and heavy industry that defines the mouth of the Yangtze.
Nanjing Infrastructure
Views of the massive bridges and transport hubs connecting the Lukou district to the city center.
The right side is the star of the show for the final 30 minutes of the flight. As you cross into Jiangsu, look for the unmistakable silhouette of Taihu Lake. On clear days, the shimmering water and the dense network of Yangtze tributaries are highlight features. Try to book an afternoon flight to have the sun behind you for better photography.
Chaoshan Hinterland
Aerial views of the dense urban-rural tapestry of eastern Guangdong immediately after takeoff.
Wuyi Mountains
The rugged, mist-covered peaks of the northern Fujian and Jiangxi border regions.
Gan River Valleys
Deep green river valleys and agricultural terraces scattered throughout the Jiangxi province.
Wuhu & Ma'anshan
Industrial hubs and urban centers of Anhui province visible as the plane begins its descent.
Twilight Horizon
Excellent visibility of the sunset over the inland mountains if flying on late afternoon schedules.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. It provides a more consistent view of the mountainous interior of China. Watch for the transition from the rugged hills of Guangdong to the flatter plains of the lower Yangtze region as you approach Nanjing.
Distance: 940 km (584 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: SWA (23.552, 116.5033)
Arrival: NKG (31.742000579833984, 118.86199951171876)
Route Type: Domestic
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