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XIY โ SJW
Which side of the plane to sit from Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (Xi'an) to Shijiazhuang Daguocun International Airport (Shijiazhuang)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular view of Mount Hua (Huashan) shortly after takeoff, followed by the dramatic confluence of the Wei and Yellow Rivers and the rugged southern faces of the Taihang Mountains.
Mount Hua (Huashan)
One of China's five sacred mountains, famous for its steep vertical cliffs and sharp granite peaks.
River Confluence
The massive junction where the Wei River joins the Yellow River near Tongguan, a historic strategic gateway.
Sanmenxia Reservoir
A vast expanse of water and the iconic dam structure on the Yellow River visible in the distance.
Taihang Grand Canyon
Sheer vertical red sandstone cliffs and deep gorges that mark the transition to the North China Plain.
Shijiazhuang Approach
The transition from the mountains to the flat, expansive industrial landscape of the Hebei plains.
The highlight of this route is Mount Hua, which appears about 10-15 minutes after takeoff from Xi'an; secure a window seat behind the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view. Afternoon flights provide the best lighting for the dramatic shadows on the Taihang mountain faces.
Loess Plateau Terraces
Intricate patterns of agricultural terracing carved into the ancient silt-rich hills of Shaanxi and Shanxi provinces.
Yellow River Bend
The massive river winding through deep canyons as it separates Shaanxi and Shanxi provinces.
Lรผliang Mountains
Rugged ridges and high-altitude plateaus that define the western edge of the Shanxi province.
Taiyuan Basin
The industrial and historical urban sprawl of Taiyuan visible nestled between mountain ranges.
Northern Taihang Slopes
Dramatic limestone peaks and deep valleys as the flight crosses the border into Hebei.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Loess Plateau's unique geological formations. Morning flights are ideal as the sun highlights the depth of the canyons without creating excessive glare. During winter, look for the stark contrast of snow-dusted terraces.
Distance: 682 km (424 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 8 min
Departure: XIY (34.447102, 108.751999)
Arrival: SJW (38.28070068359375, 114.6969985961914)
Route Type: Domestic
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