Loading map...
XIY â TAO
Which side of the plane to sit from Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (Xi'an) to Liuting Airport (Qingdao)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic transition from the inland plains to the coastal beauty of Qingdao, including the Qinling mountains and the vast Yellow Sea coastline.
Qinling Mountain Range
The majestic peaks that separate Northern and Southern China are visible during the initial climb.
Mount Song (Songshan)
Look for the sacred peaks home to the world-famous Shaolin Temple near the midpoint of the journey.
Weishan Lake
One of the largest freshwater lakes in the region, appearing as a shimmering blue expanse.
Jiaozhou Bay Bridge
The massive cross-sea bridge connecting Qingdao and Huangdao is visible during the final descent.
Qingdao Coastline
Beautiful views of the urban beaches, red-tiled roofs, and the sprawling Yellow Sea.
Laoshan Mountain
The highest coastal mountain in China, often visible as the plane banks for its final approach.
The right side is essential for sunset arrivals, providing a stunning view of the golden sun reflecting off the Yellow Sea. Keep your camera ready as you cross Jiaozhou Bay for views of the massive infrastructure below.
Yellow River (Huang He)
Witness the massive, winding curves of China's second-longest river as it snakes through the plains.
Zhengzhou Urban Core
A clear view of the sprawling high-rises and the landmark 'Big Corn' tower in Zhengzhou.
Taihang Foothills
Distant views of the rugged mountain range that defines the border of the North China Plain.
North China Farmland
A patchwork quilt of agricultural fields that stretches to the horizon across Henan and Shandong.
Northern Jiaodong Coast
As the plane crosses the peninsula, view the industrial ports and shipping lanes to the north.
The left side is ideal for morning departures from Xi'an to minimize direct sun glare. It provides the best perspective of the Yellow River's unique silt-colored waters during the first half of the flight.
Distance: 1,072 km (666 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 26 min
Departure: XIY (34.447102, 108.751999)
Arrival: TAO (36.2661018372, 120.374000549)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.