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URC → NKG
Which side of the plane to sit from Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport (Urumqi) to Nanjing Lukou Airport (Nanjing)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic snow-capped peaks of the Qilian Mountains and the unique geography of the Qinling Mountains, while also providing a glimpse into the Turpan Basin shortly after departure.
Turpan Depression
Early in the flight, look down to see the Flaming Mountains and the low-lying basins near the lowest point in China.
Qilian Mountains
An extended sequence of magnificent snow-capped peaks and glaciers running parallel to the flight path through the Hexi Corridor.
Qinling Mountains
The massive biological and geographical divide between North and South China, featuring lush, rugged ridges.
Yangtze River
During the descent into Nanjing, the mighty Yangtze River comes into view as it flows toward the East China Sea.
Nanjing Bridges
As you approach NKG, watch for the massive suspension and cable-stayed bridges crossing the Yangtze.
The right side is significantly more scenic for mountain lovers. Book a morning flight to have the sun at your back, perfectly lighting the Qilian and Qinling ranges. Avoid wing-area seats to get an unobstructed view of the deep valleys and river systems during the descent.
Bogda Peak
Visible shortly after takeoff from Urumqi, the highest peak in the eastern Tianshan range stands majestically to the north.
Badain Jaran Desert
Looking north as you cross Gansu, you can see the high dunes of the inner Mongolian plateau stretching toward the horizon.
Yellow River Bends
Observe the massive loops of the Yellow River as it meanders through the Ningxia and Inner Mongolia border regions.
Zhengzhou Urban Area
A dense urban landscape visible during the mid-to-late stage of the flight as you traverse the North China Plain.
Sit on the left for better views of the Tianshan range immediately after departure. For the best lighting on the desert landscapes, choose afternoon flights when the sun is in the south, illuminating the northern terrain from behind the aircraft.
Distance: 3,046 km (1,893 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 35 min
Departure: URC (43.90710067749024, 87.47419738769531)
Arrival: NKG (31.742000579833984, 118.86199951171876)
Route Type: Domestic
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