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VIE → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Vienna International Airport (Vienna) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the best chance to see the majestic Lake Baikal and potential views of the Aurora Borealis during night flights in winter.
High Tatras
View the jagged peaks of the Tatra Mountains on the border of Slovakia and Poland shortly after departure.
Ural Mountains
The natural boundary between Europe and Asia, visible as a long chain of weathered peaks.
Siberian Taiga
Breathtaking views of the world's largest forest, a vast expanse of coniferous trees and winding rivers.
Lake Baikal
The highlight of the route; if the path is northerly, you will see the world's deepest lake, often frozen in winter.
Northern Lights
On winter night flights, this north-facing side provides the best opportunity to spot the Aurora Borealis.
Choose a window seat mid-cabin or forward to avoid wing obstruction. During winter months, keep your eyes peeled for the Aurora over Russian airspace. Lake Baikal is best seen roughly 6-7 hours into the flight; check the flight map frequently as you approach the Mongolian border.
Vienna and Danube
Excellent views of the Austrian capital and the Danube river immediately after takeoff from VIE.
Gobi Desert
Massive orange and yellow sand dunes and rocky plateaus as you cross from Mongolia into China.
Altai Mountains
Rugged, snow-capped peaks where Russia, China, and Mongolia meet.
Great Wall of China
On the descent into PEK from the north, you can often spot sections of the wall snaking across the mountains.
Continental Sunrise
Since the flight travels East, the right side enjoys a spectacular sunrise over the Asian landmass.
This side is ideal for sunrise enthusiasts. As you descend into Beijing, the right side often offers a better angle for spotting the Great Wall near the Huairou district. Be aware that midday glare can be intense over the Gobi Desert, so high-quality sunglasses are recommended for viewing.
Distance: 7,452 km (4,630 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 46 min
Departure: VIE (48.110298156738, 16.569700241089002)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: International
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