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XFN → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Xiangyang Liuji Airport (Xiangfan) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a spectacular vantage point of the Taihang Mountain range, which runs parallel to the flight path, along with dramatic views of the Yellow River crossing.
Taihang Mountains
A massive mountain range spanning the border of Henan, Shanxi, and Hebei, featuring steep cliffs and deep canyons.
Yellow River Crossing
The flight crosses the iconic 'Mother River' of China, visible as a wide, sediment-rich waterway near Luoyang.
Shijiazhuang Cityscape
An expansive aerial view of the capital of Hebei province, a major industrial and transportation hub.
Funiu Mountain Peaks
Lush, forested peaks visible shortly after departure from Xiangyang as you head north through Henan.
Western Beijing Hills
On approach to PEK, the rugged mountains bordering Beijing to the west provide a scenic backdrop to the city.
Book an 'A' seat for the best views of the Taihang ridge. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the eastern slopes of the mountains, highlighting the vertical rock faces. Keep an eye out for the transition from the flat Henan plains to the rugged northern terrain.
North China Plain
Endless patterns of agricultural land and small villages that characterize the heart of China's breadbasket.
Zhengzhou Metropolis
View of the rapidly expanding urban sprawl and massive railway hubs of Henan's capital city.
South-to-North Water Diversion
You can often spot the massive canal systems designed to transport water from the south to the thirsty north.
Beijing CBD Skyline
During the final descent into PEK, the right side often catches views of the China Zun and CCTV Headquarters.
Tongzhou District
Beijing's sub-center with its modern glass towers and new administrative developments visible before landing.
Choose an 'F' seat for the best chance to see the Beijing skyline during the descent. Sunset flights are particularly beautiful on this side, as the evening light reflects off the dense urban clusters and agricultural canals. Look for the distinct geometric patterns of the North China Plain's farmland.
Distance: 962 km (598 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min
Departure: XFN (32.1506, 112.291)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: Domestic
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