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XIY → GOQ
Which side of the plane to sit from Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (Xi'an) to Golmud Airport (Golmud)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the majestic Qilian Mountains and a higher probability of spotting the expansive blue waters of Qinghai Lake, alongside the intricate patterns of the Loess Plateau.
Loess Plateau Terraces
Incredible patterns of traditional terraced farming carved into the yellow silt hills of Shaanxi and Gansu.
Qilian Mountains
A continuous chain of high, snow-capped peaks that parallel the flight path for a significant duration.
Qinghai Lake
China's largest inland lake, visible as a massive turquoise or deep blue expanse amidst the high-altitude grasslands.
Qaidam Salt Flats
Brilliant white patches of salt lakes and crusts that define the arid landscape approaching Golmud.
This side is essential for seeing Qinghai Lake; keep your eyes peeled roughly 50 minutes into the flight. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the Qilian snowcaps and the vibrant blues of the water without glare.
Wei River Valley
Aerial views of the fertile valley and the urban expansion of the Xi'an-Xianyang metropolitan area shortly after takeoff.
Liupan Mountains
The rugged green ridges of the Liupan range, a significant geographic boundary in western China.
Kunlun Mountain Range
As you approach Golmud, the horizon is dominated by the massive, snow-dusted peaks of the eastern Kunlun range.
Gonghe Basin
Transitioning into high-altitude desert and steppe landscapes with unique geological folds.
Sit behind the wing to capture the scale of the Kunlun Mountains during descent. Late afternoon flights provide dramatic shadows on the mountain faces, highlighting the jagged topography of the Tibetan Plateau's edge.
Distance: 1,283 km (797 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 43 min
Departure: XIY (34.447102, 108.751999)
Arrival: GOQ (36.4006, 94.786102)
Route Type: Domestic
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