Loading map...
XIY → DAT
Which side of the plane to sit from Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (Xi'an) to Datong Airport (Datong)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the dramatic Fen River valley and the sacred peaks of Mount Heng, plus historical Great Wall sections near Datong.
Search flights from XIY to DAT
Fen River Valley
The fertile, densely populated heartland of Shanxi province flanked by high mountains.
Mount Heng
One of the Five Great Mountains of China, famous for its steep cliffs and historical significance.
Ancient Great Wall
Visible remnants of the Ming dynasty defensive walls snaking across the northern ridges.
Datong Basin
A wide panoramic view of the historic city as the plane aligns for its final approach.
To see Mount Heng clearly, ensure you are on the right side during the final third of the flight. Morning flights are ideal for this side as the sun illuminates the eastern slopes of the Lüliang range and the valley floor without creating glare on the window.
Book Hotels in Datong
Loess Plateau
Unique eroded landscapes and vast terraced fields typical of northern Shaanxi and Shanxi.
Lüliang Mountains
Rugged mountain ranges that define the western edge of the central Shanxi basin.
Sanggan River
A historic waterway winding through the northern landscapes as you approach Datong.
The left side is spectacular during late afternoon flights when the low sun casts deep shadows into the Loess canyons, highlighting the complex erosion patterns. Look for the unique 'Yaodong' cave dwellings still visible in some rural areas.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 751 km (467 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 15 min
Departure: XIY (34.447102, 108.751999)
Arrival: DAT (40.060299, 113.482002)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.