Loading map...
XIY → WUA
Which side of the plane to sit from Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (Xi'an) to Wuhai Airport (Wuhai)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers superior views of the dramatic Helan Mountains and the transition from the Loess Plateau into the deserts of Ningxia and Inner Mongolia. The approach into Wuhai provides a spectacular view of the Wuhai Lake and the industrial landscapes of the Gobi edge.
Liupan Mountains
View the rugged ridges and deep valleys of the southern Loess Plateau shortly after departure from Xi'an.
Yinchuan Plain
Glimpse the fertile 'Oasis on the Frontier' where the Yellow River irrigates the vast agricultural lands.
Helan Mountains
The stunning jagged peaks that act as a natural barrier against the desert sands of the Gobi.
Tengger Desert Edge
See the golden rolling dunes of the Tengger Desert meeting the green irrigation zones near the Ningxia border.
Wuhai Lake
A massive reservoir on the Yellow River that creates a striking blue contrast against the desert mountains during descent.
For the most dramatic lighting on the Helan Mountains, choose a late afternoon flight. Sitting in front of the wing is recommended to capture the sharp contrast between the Wuhai Lake and the surrounding desert during the final descent. Winter flights offer a unique view of the frozen Yellow River.
Loess Plateau Terraces
Observe the intricate patterns of terraced farming and the unique geological erosion of the Shaanxi region.
Yan'an Region
Fly over the historical heart of the plateau, characterized by deep gullies and traditional cave dwelling geography.
Mu Us Desert
Witness the impressive desert restoration projects where once-shifting sands have been stabilized with vegetation.
Ordos Plateau
The high-altitude semi-arid landscape featuring sparse grasslands and salt lakes typical of Inner Mongolia.
Yellow River Bend
Spot the massive loops of the Yellow River as it winds through the Hetao region before reaching Wuhai.
Morning flights are ideal for the right side to see the deep shadows and textures of the Loess Plateau. Keep an eye out for the 'Green Great Wall' reforestation efforts, which are particularly visible from this side as patches of green emerging from the arid Ordos sands.
Distance: 619 km (385 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 2 min
Departure: XIY (34.447102, 108.751999)
Arrival: WUA (39.7934, 106.7993)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.