Loading map...

URC destination photo
SZX destination photo

URCSZX

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of China's most dramatic mountain ranges, including the Qilian and Qinling mountains, along with the distinct transition from the Gobi Desert to the lush landscapes of the south.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏔️

Qilian Mountains

Spectacular views of massive glaciers and jagged peaks that form the natural boundary of the Hexi Corridor.

🛣️

Ancient Silk Road

Follow the historical trade route path nestled between the mountains to the south and the desert to the north.

⛰️

Qinling Divide

The dramatic 'Green Wall' of China that separates the arid north from the humid subtropical south.

🏙️

Guangzhou Megacity

During the descent, view the sprawling Pearl River Delta and the iconic Canton Tower in the distance.

🌉

HKZM Bridge

If approaching from the south or west, spot the world's longest sea-crossing bridge connecting HK, Zhuhai, and Macao.

Choose the right side for afternoon flights to get the best lighting on the Qilian and Qinling ranges. This side provides the most diverse geological scenery, from desert dunes to mountain glaciers and eventually tropical river deltas. Try to book a seat forward of the wing to get clear shots of the mountains without engine heat distortion.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏔️

Bogda Peak

Witness the towering 5,445m snow-capped summit of the Tianshan range immediately after departing Urumqi.

🏜️

Hami Basin

Observe the stark contrast of isolated oasis agriculture against the vast, sun-scorched Gobi desert terrain.

🌊

Yellow River Bends

Look for the winding brown ribbons of the Yellow River as it meanders through the Loess Plateau region.

🏙️

Central Urban Hubs

Direct views over major inland cities such as Xi'an or Wuhan depending on the specific high-altitude airway used.

🌁

Shenzhen Skyline

On the final northern approach to SZX, catch the dense skyscraper clusters of the Luohu and Futian districts.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct southern sun glare. This side is better for spotting the Bogda Peak shortly after takeoff. Ensure you keep your window shade up during the mid-flight crossing of the Yellow River to see the unique Loess topography.

Top Activities in Shenzhen
Route Information

Distance: 3,376 km (2,098 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 58 min

Departure: URC (43.90710067749024, 87.47419738769531)

Arrival: SZX (22.639299392700195, 113.81099700927734)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.