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TSE → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Astana International Airport (Tselinograd) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the most iconic geographical features of Central Asia and Northern China, including the snow-capped Tianshan Mountains, the vast Gobi Desert, and potential views of the Great Wall during the descent into Beijing.
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Lake Balkhash
One of the largest lakes in Asia, famous for its unique crescent shape and half-fresh, half-saltwater composition.
Tianshan Mountains
The spectacular 'Celestial Mountains' featuring dramatic 7,000-meter peaks covered in permanent snow and glaciers.
Gobi Desert
Aerial views of the iconic Gobi, showcasing complex sand dune patterns and ancient dry riverbeds across Inner Mongolia.
Yellow River
The winding 'Mother River' of China may be visible as you fly over the Ordos Loop near the city of Hohhot.
The Great Wall
On clear days during the descent, the mountain-top fortifications of the Great Wall (Badaling or Mutianyu sectors) can be spotted.
For the best photography of the Tianshan peaks, choose a daytime flight. The sun is typically south of the flight path, illuminating the mountains beautifully. During the descent into Beijing, keep your eyes peeled for the rugged ridges north of the city where the Great Wall is perched; it's small but distinct.
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Astana Modernity
Panoramic views of the futuristic architecture of Kazakhstan's capital including the Khan Shatyr and Baiterek Tower shortly after takeoff.
Kazakh Steppe
The immense, flat golden plains of Central Asia that seem to stretch infinitely toward the Russian border.
Altai Foothills
Distant views of the northern Altai mountain range on the horizon as the flight crosses the border into China.
Junggar Basin
An arid region in Xinjiang featuring unique geological depressions and sparse, rugged desert landscapes.
Miyun Reservoir
A massive body of water north of Beijing that serves as a key landmark during the final approach into PEK.
Sit on the left if you prefer the soft, even lighting of the northern sky. During early morning flights, this side avoids direct sun glare. Watch for the stark contrast between the green irrigated patches and the surrounding brown desert as you enter Chinese airspace.
Get eSIMs for Kazakhstan
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 3,652 km (2,269 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 18 min
Departure: TSE (51.02220153808594, 71.46690368652344)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: International
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