Loading map...
WUH → LHW
Which side of the plane to sit from Wuhan Tianhe International Airport (Wuhan) to Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport (Lanzhou)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a more dramatic view of the Qinling Mountains' northern ridge and the transition into the deeply eroded landscapes of the Loess Plateau near Lanzhou.
Han River Confluence
Observe where the Han River meets the Yangtze, often showing distinct water colors near Wuhan.
Qinling Main Ridge
The plane typically flies parallel to the main divide, offering sweeping views of the highest peaks in the range.
Wei River Valley
See the fertile Guanzhong Plain and the Wei River, the cradle of early Chinese civilization, unfolding to the north.
Xi'an Distant Skyline
On clear days, the sprawling urban layout of the ancient capital Xi'an can be spotted to the north of the mountains.
Loess Plateau Terraces
Incredible patterns of agricultural terracing carved into the yellow silt hills of Gansu province.
Ancient Great Wall Segments
Look closely as you enter Gansu; remnants of the Ming-era Great Wall can sometimes be spotted crossing the ridges.
The right side is best for afternoon flights to avoid direct sun glare. Pay close attention during the last 30 minutes of the flight; the erosion patterns on the Loess Plateau are mesmerizing and look best under high-angle sunlight. Use a window seat away from the wing for the best view of the Great Wall remnants.
Yangtze River Bend
Shortly after takeoff from Wuhan, look down to see the massive Yangtze winding through the Hubei plains.
Shennongjia Wilderness
View the southern, densely forested slopes of the Shennongjia mountains, known for their biodiversity.
Qinling Southern Range
A close-up view of the rugged, steep peaks that form the natural boundary between North and South China.
Danjiangkou Reservoir
Visible in the distance, this massive blue reservoir is a key source for the South-to-North Water Diversion Project.
Yellow River S-Curves
On final approach to Lanzhou, catch the muddy, powerful Yellow River cutting through deep canyons.
Sit on the left for softer lighting during morning flights. The view of the Yangtze near Wuhan is best immediately after departure. During the winter, the contrast between the green southern mountains and the brown northern plateau is most striking from this side.
Distance: 1,168 km (726 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 33 min
Departure: WUH (30.7838, 114.208)
Arrival: LHW (36.5152015686, 103.620002747)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.