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URC → NLT
Which side of the plane to sit from Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport (Urumqi) to Xinyuan Nalati Airport (Xinyuan)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a continuous, breathtaking panorama of the high Tianshan mountain range, featuring permanent glaciers and the iconic alpine meadows of the Ili Valley during descent.
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Central Tianshan Range
Uninterrupted views of the 'Celestial Mountains' with peaks often exceeding 5,000 meters.
Permanent Glaciers
Ancient ice fields and snow-capped summits that remain white even in the peak of summer.
Nalati Grasslands
High-altitude meadows and spruce forests that appear like a green carpet as you approach Xinyuan.
Dushanzi Grand Canyon
Deeply eroded river beds and dramatic cliffs visible shortly after heading west from Urumqi.
Choose a window seat behind the wing for unobstructed views of the peaks. Morning flights are highly recommended as the sun illuminates the southern faces of the Tianshan mountains, creating sharp contrasts and perfect photography conditions. Look out for the transition from the arid Urumqi outskirts to the lush green valleys of the west.
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Urumqi Cityscape
A clear view of the expanding urban sprawl of Xinjiang's capital against the desert backdrop during takeoff.
Junggar Basin Edge
The vast, arid plains stretching north toward the Gurbantünggüt Desert.
Ili River Valley
The 'Green Corridor' of Xinjiang, characterized by fertile floodplains and winding river channels.
Xinyuan Farmland
Geometric patterns of agricultural fields that mark the fertile land near the Nalati airport.
The right side is excellent for observing the stark transition between the desert basins and the mountain foothills. If flying during the late afternoon, this side will be shaded, which reduces window glare for photos. Watch for the intricate irrigation networks that sustain the agriculture in the Ili region as you descend.
Book Hotels in XinyuanDistance: 334 km (208 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 33 min
Departure: URC (43.90710067749024, 87.47419738769531)
Arrival: NLT (43.4318, 83.3786)
Route Type: Domestic
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