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XIY → XNN
Which side of the plane to sit from Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (Xi'an) to Xining Caojiabu Airport (Xining)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the dramatic Qilian Mountain range and the intricate erosion patterns of the northern Loess Plateau as the flight heads west-northwest.
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Loess Plateau Erosion
Spectacular aerial patterns of gullies and ridges formed by thousands of years of wind and water.
Yellow River Bends
Strategic views of the Yellow River as it carves through the arid Gansu landscape near Lanzhou.
Lanzhou Skyline
A unique perspective of this narrow city squeezed into the Yellow River valley.
Qilian Mountains
Majestic, snow-capped peaks that dominate the northern horizon during the approach to Xining.
Hexi Corridor Entry
The start of the historic Silk Road path leading toward the Gobi Desert.
A morning flight is ideal for this side, as the sun will be behind you, perfectly illuminating the textures of the Loess Plateau and the Qilian peaks. Ensure you choose a window seat forward of the wing to capture the deep river canyons without obstruction. In winter, the contrast between the white snow and the yellow silt is breathtaking.
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Qinling Mountains
The massive natural boundary between North and South China visible to the far south.
Wei River Valley
Lush agricultural plains of the Guanzhong region during the initial climb.
Yaodong Dwellings
Traditional cave houses carved into the silt hills of Shaanxi and eastern Gansu.
Riyue Mountain
The symbolic transition point between the agricultural east and the pastoral Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
Sit toward the rear for a panoramic view of the Qinling range. During the afternoon, expect heavy glare from the sun on this side. Keep an eye out for the distinct change in soil color as you move from the yellow loess to the darker plateau earth.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 650 km (404 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 5 min
Departure: XIY (34.447102, 108.751999)
Arrival: XNN (36.5275, 102.042999)
Route Type: Domestic
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