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XIY → NAO
Which side of the plane to sit from Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (Xi'an) to Nanchong Airport (Nanchong)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the majestic Qinling Mountains, including its highest peaks like Mount Taibai, and provides a front-row seat to the dramatic transition into the Sichuan Basin.
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Mount Taibai
The highest peak in the Qinling Mountains, often featuring snow on its summit even in late spring.
Micang National Forest
Fly over vast stretches of protected forest land known for its high biodiversity and deep green hues.
Jialing River Meanders
Stunning views of the Jialing River's horseshoe bends and dramatic loops during the descent into Nanchong.
Nanchong Cityscape
A great view of the expanding urban landscape of Nanchong and its bridges over the Jialing River during final approach.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to catch the golden hour light hitting the western faces of the Qinling peaks. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff from Xi'an, as the climb over the mountains happens quickly and offers the most dramatic elevation changes.
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Eastern Qinling Ridge
Witness the rugged topography of the central mountain range that separates northern and southern China.
Han River Valley
View the winding path of the Han River as it flows through the mountain valleys towards Hanzhong.
Daba Mountains
Observe the dense, lush vegetation and steep cliffs of the Daba range as you enter Sichuan airspace.
Basin Terraces
Examine the intricate patterns of agricultural terracing that characterize the Sichuan Basin's hilly edges.
Choose the left side for morning flights (before 10:00 AM) to have the sun behind you, allowing for clearer photos of the mountain shadows. This side is also excellent for spotting the transition in agricultural styles from wheat to rice paddies.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 473 km (294 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 47 min
Departure: XIY (34.447102, 108.751999)
Arrival: NAO (30.79545, 106.1626)
Route Type: Domestic
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