Loading map...
XIL → NAY
Which side of the plane to sit from Xilinhot Airport (Xilinhot) to Beijing Nanyuan Airport (Beijing)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular transition from the rolling dunes of the Hunshandake Sandy Land to the dramatic mountain ridges of the Bashang Plateau, concluding with a prime view of central Beijing landmarks during the descent.
Search flights from XIL to NAY
Hunshandake Sandy Land
A unique landscape of 'water desert' featuring a mix of sand dunes, shrubs, and occasional seasonal lakes.
Bashang Plateau
The dramatic geological step where the Inner Mongolian Plateau drops significantly toward the North China Plain.
Guanting Reservoir
A sprawling reservoir surrounded by wind turbines and the jagged peaks of the Taihang and Yan ranges.
The Great Wall
Occasional sightings of the Ming dynasty fortifications snaking along the ridgelines near Zhangjiakou.
Central Beijing Core
Unparalleled views of the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, and the CBD towers when approaching Nanyuan from the north.
Afternoon flights provide the best lighting for the sandy lands and mountain textures. The descent into Nanyuan often passes directly over the historical center of Beijing; if visibility is high, you can see the symmetrical layout of the old city and the Olympic park area clearly.
Book Hotels in Beijing
Xilingol Grassland
Infinite stretches of high-altitude prairie known for its deep green summer hues and golden autumn tones.
Greater Khingan Foothills
The southern tip of the mountain range providing a rugged, undulating terrain visible shortly after takeoff.
Miyun Reservoir
A massive, deep blue water body nestled in the Yan Mountains, serving as Beijing's primary water source.
Eastern Beijing Sub-center
Views of the modern urban development in Tongzhou as the plane aligns for its final approach.
Sit on the left during morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun. This side is better for observing the vastness of the Inner Mongolian steppe and the dense forestry of the northern mountains. Keep an eye out for the Miyun Reservoir about 20 minutes before landing.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 461 km (286 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 46 min
Departure: XIL (43.91559982299805, 115.96399688720705)
Arrival: NAY (39.78279876708984, 116.38800048828124)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.