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TSN → XNN
Which side of the plane to sit from Tianjin Binhai International Airport (Tianjin) to Xining Caojiabu Airport (Xining)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic transition from the North China Plain to the rugged Loess Plateau and the towering Qilian Mountains during the final approach.
Beijing-Tianjin Megacity
On clear days, see the sprawling northern edges of the capital region and the distant Yan Mountains.
Northern Taihang Cliffs
Dramatic, sheer rock faces and the 'Grand Canyon of China' visible as you fly over the border of Hebei and Shanxi.
Loess Plateau Terraces
Intricate, ancient agricultural terraces carved into the yellow silt hills, creating a mesmerizing geographic pattern.
Tengger Desert Fringes
Glimpses of the arid landscape and sand dunes to the far north as the flight passes Ningxia.
Qilian Mountains
Spectacular snow-capped peaks and high-altitude alpine scenery during the descent into Xining.
The right side is ideal for photographers interested in the geometric patterns of the Loess Plateau. Afternoon flights are best as the sun illuminates the northern slopes and provides depth to the mountain ridges. Keep a close eye out for the Qilian Mountains during the final 20 minutes of the flight, as they offer the most majestic views of the journey.
Tianjin Industrial Hub
Aerial view of the massive industrial and port infrastructure of the Binhai New Area shortly after takeoff.
Taihang Mountains South
Dense forested ridges and deep limestone canyons of the central Taihang range as the plane crosses into Shanxi.
Fen River Valley
The fertile agricultural heartland of central Shanxi, showing ancient settlement patterns and intensive farming.
Yellow River S-Bend
Stunning views of the silt-laden Yellow River as it carves its way through the Loess Plateau near the border of Shaanxi.
Lanzhou Basin
Distant views of the urban expansion tucked between the high yellow hills of Gansu province.
Sit behind the wing for an unobstructed view of the Yellow River. Choose a mid-morning flight to avoid the harshest southern glare while maintaining high visibility of the terraced hills. The approach into Xining from the south-east often provides a great perspective of the transition from brown hills to the green Huangshui Valley.
Distance: 1,373 km (853 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 50 min
Departure: TSN (39.1244010925, 117.346000671)
Arrival: XNN (36.5275, 102.042999)
Route Type: Domestic
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