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TYN destination photo
LHW destination photo

TYNLHW

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides an exceptional view of the intricate soil erosion patterns and agricultural terracing unique to the Loess Plateau.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Lvliang Mountains

Observe the rugged terrain of the Lvliang range shortly after departing from the Taiyuan basin.

🌾

Loess Terraces

Spectacular agricultural steps carved into the golden-brown hillsides across Shanxi and Shaanxi provinces.

🌊

Yellow River Crossing

A dramatic view of the Yellow River as it carves a deep path through the soft plateau soil.

🏘️

Traditional Yaodongs

Spot traditional cave dwellings built directly into the Loess cliffs in rural Shaanxi.

Book an early morning flight to catch the low-angle sunlight, which creates deep shadows that emphasize the dramatic erosion of the plateau. The most interesting terrain appears roughly 20 to 30 minutes after takeoff.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Taiyuan Basin

A wide-angle view of the Fen River valley and the industrial landscape of Taiyuan upon departure.

🏜️

Ordos Fringe

Visual transitions where the Loess Plateau meets the more arid, desert-like environments to the north.

🌊

River Meanders

Glimpse the winding path of the Yellow River as it flows toward the Great Bend region.

🏔️

Lanzhou Mountains

The rugged, barren mountains surrounding Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport during the final descent.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the glare of the southern sun. During the approach to Lanzhou, keep your eyes north to spot the distant, often snow-capped peaks of the Qilian mountain range.

Top Activities in Lanzhou
Route Information

Distance: 810 km (503 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min

Departure: TYN (37.74689865112305, 112.62799835205078)

Arrival: LHW (36.5152015686, 103.620002747)

Route Type: Domestic

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