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XMN → HGH
Which side of the plane to sit from Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (Xiamen) to Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (Hangzhou)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular view of the rugged Fujian and Zhejiang coastlines, including intricate bays, islands, and the vast East China Sea.
Sansha Bay
A stunning deep-water bay known for its thousands of floating aquaculture farms and rocky islands.
Wenzhou Coastline
Witness the bustling maritime activity around the Ou River estuary and the industrial port of Wenzhou.
Qiantang River Estuary
A dramatic view of the massive river opening into Hangzhou Bay, famous for its tidal bore.
The right side is significantly more scenic for coastal geography. Afternoon flights are ideal as the sun moves west, illuminating the coastline with warm, golden light. Look specifically for the distinct 'sea-cross' bridges and the intricate patterns of the mudflats and fish farms near Ningde and Wenzhou. Ensure a window seat away from the wing for the best photography of the Qiantang River approach.
Wuyi Mountain Foothills
View the rolling green peaks and dense forests of the northern Fujian mountain ranges.
Fuzhou Inland Districts
Aerial perspective of the western residential and industrial sectors of Fujian's capital city.
Zhejiang Farmlands
Patterned agricultural basins and traditional water villages near the Jinhua-Quzhou area.
Sit on the left for softer lighting during morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. On clear days, look for the sharp silhouettes of the inland mountain ranges. During the descent into Hangzhou, keep an eye out for a distant glimpse of the UNESCO World Heritage West Lake if the approach path allows for a western turn.
Distance: 672 km (418 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 7 min
Departure: XMN (24.54400062561035, 118.12799835205078)
Arrival: HGH (30.22949981689453, 120.43399810791016)
Route Type: Domestic
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