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XNN → XIY
Which side of the plane to sit from Xining Caojiabu Airport (Xining) to Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (Xi'an)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the majestic Qinling Mountains and the fertile Wei River valley during the descent into Xi'an.
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Qinling Mountain Range
The massive granite peaks of China's great climate divide visible to the south.
Wei River Valley
Follow the lush green belt of the Wei River as it leads the plane toward the ancient capital.
Xi'an Urban Sprawl
A grand view of the dense urban grid of Xi'an, occasionally showing the Rectangular City Wall.
Guanzhong Plain
The vast, flat agricultural heartland that has sustained Chinese dynasties for millennia.
The right side is ideal for morning flights when the sun illuminates the northern faces of the Qinling Mountains. During the descent into XIY, the aircraft often maneuvers south of the airport, providing a sweeping panorama of the Wei River. Keep a keen eye out for the Han Yang Ling Mausoleum near the airport perimeter during final approach.
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Loess Plateau Terraces
Witness the intricate, ancient agricultural terrace patterns carved into the yellow earth hills.
Yellow River Bends
Catch glimpses of the Yellow River as it snakes through the arid landscapes of Gansu and Shaanxi.
Lanzhou Periphery
Aerial views of the rugged mountains surrounding the industrial hubs near the Gansu border.
Arid Canyons
Deep, weathered ravines that showcase the unique geological erosion of northern China.
Sit on the left for afternoon flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. This side provides the best perspective for the unique 'honeycomb' erosion patterns of the Loess Plateau. Look out early in the flight for the stark contrast between Xining's mountainous basin and the rolling hills to the east.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 650 km (404 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 5 min
Departure: XNN (36.5275, 102.042999)
Arrival: XIY (34.447102, 108.751999)
Route Type: Domestic
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