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YIH → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Yichang Sanxia Airport (Yichang) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the dramatic Taihang Mountain range and the winding Yangtze River, providing more geological variety than the flatter plains to the east.
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Yangtze River Meanders
Aerial views of the iconic Yangtze River as it winds through the Hubei landscape immediately after departure.
Taihang Mountains
The rugged western boundary of the North China Plain, featuring sharp ridges and deep valleys.
The Yellow River
Crossing the 'Mother River' of China, often appearing in its signature ochre-colored silty hue.
Xishan (Western Hills)
The forested mountains bordering the western edge of Beijing, visible during the final descent phase.
Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to avoid the sun's glare. Keep your eyes peeled 10-15 minutes after takeoff for the intricate river patterns. In winter, the Taihang mountains are often snow-capped, offering stunning photographic opportunities.
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North China Plain
A vast, geometric patchwork of agricultural fields and rural settlements stretching to the horizon.
Zhengzhou Skyline
The massive urban sprawl and high-rises of the capital of Henan province during the mid-flight segment.
Beijing Central Business District
Iconic skyscrapers like the CITIC Tower (China Zun) are often visible if the plane approaches PEK from the south.
PEK Terminal 3
A top-down view of the dragon-shaped terminal, one of the largest airport structures in the world.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or sunset flights. During the descent into Beijing, this side typically offers the most expansive view of the city's urban sprawl and the sprawling Beijing Capital International Airport complex itself.
Book Hotels in BeijingDistance: 1,155 km (718 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 32 min
Departure: YIH (30.55655, 111.479988)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: Domestic
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