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URC → AKU
Which side of the plane to sit from Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport (Urumqi) to Aksu Airport (Aksu)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a continuous, breathtaking panorama of the high Tianshan mountain range, including its glaciers and the dramatic shift into the Tarim Basin.
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Bogda Peak
The snow-capped 5,445-meter peak dominates the skyline shortly after departure from Urumqi.
Tianshan Glaciers
Vast fields of perennial ice and high-altitude glacial lakes visible during the mid-flight crossing.
Central Tianshan Range
Dramatic, jagged ridgelines that separate the northern and southern regions of Xinjiang.
Taklamakan Desert Edge
The golden sands of the world's second-largest shifting sand desert appearing as you cross the mountains.
Aksu Oasis
A striking contrast of vibrant green agricultural land surrounded by arid desert terrain during descent.
For the best photography, opt for a morning flight to avoid the afternoon haze. Seat yourself behind the wing to capture the full scale of the Tianshan range against the aircraft's silhouette. Watch for the sudden transition from white snow to red-brown rock as the plane moves south.
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Northern Foothills
The greener, more temperate slopes of the northern Tianshan visible during the initial climb.
Tomur Peak
Also known as Jengish Chokusu, the highest point of the Tianshan (7,439m) can be seen in the distance to the west.
Aksu River Valley
The life-giving water source winding through the canyons before reaching the city of Aksu.
Canyon Formations
Deeply eroded geological layers and colorful rock formations typical of the Wensu Grand Canyon area.
Keep your eyes peeled during the final 20 minutes of the flight; the right side offers a better angle for spotting the massive Tomur Peak on clear days. Afternoon flights on this side are particularly good as the sun illuminates the western faces of the mountains.
Book Hotels in AksuDistance: 657 km (408 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 6 min
Departure: URC (43.90710067749024, 87.47419738769531)
Arrival: AKU (41.262501, 80.291702)
Route Type: Domestic
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