Right-side seats capture the dramatic Wuling Mountains departure from Guiyang and maintain views of the Tibetan Plateau's eastern edge and mountain ranges throughout the westbound climb. While the landing approach favors the left, the takeoff scenery is more visually distinctive and sustained.
Flown KWE to LAX? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Guiyang to Los Angeles is 7,314 miles (11,771 km), a flight of about 14 hours.
The flight path crosses the Tibetan Plateau's eastern margin, passing over the Hengduan Mountains and Sichuan Basin. Over central China, expect views of the Qinling Mountains and Yellow River valley. Crossing into Mongolia and Russia, the terrain becomes increasingly sparse with vast steppe and taiga forests. Over the North Pacific, no landmarks visible. Approaching North America, the Rocky Mountains and Sierra Nevada become prominent on the descent into California.
Great circle distance and headings ›
.jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from KWE
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Wuling Mountains immediately east of Guiyang during climb-out. The terrain rises sharply in this direction, creating dramatic elevation changes visible within the first 10-15 minutes of flight.
Landing at LAX
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the Sierra Nevada and Mojave Desert terrain during descent into LAX. The mountain range's western escarpment and the transition from high desert to coastal plains are visually striking during final approach.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport (KWE) to Los Angeles International (LAX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Guiyang to Los Angeles. Right-side seats capture the dramatic Wuling Mountains departure from Guiyang and maintain views of the Tibetan Plateau's eastern edge and mountain ranges throughout the westbound climb. While the landing approach favors the left, the takeoff scenery is more visually distinctive and sustained.
What can I see during takeoff from Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport in Guiyang?
During takeoff from Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport (KWE), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Wuling Mountains immediately east of Guiyang during climb-out. The terrain rises sharply in this direction, creating dramatic elevation changes visible within the first 10-15 minutes of flight. Notable sights include: Wuling Mountains (eastern range), Nanming River valley (flowing northwest through Guiyang), Guiyang urban sprawl (visible as grid pattern below), karst limestone formations (scattered throughout surrounding terrain).
What can I see when landing at Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
When landing at Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Sierra Nevada and Mojave Desert terrain during descent into LAX. The mountain range's western escarpment and the transition from high desert to coastal plains are visually striking during final approach. Notable sights include: Sierra Nevada range (eastern horizon), Mojave Desert (tan and brown terrain), San Gabriel Mountains (closer, darker ridges), Los Angeles basin sprawl (grid of lights and urban development).
How long is the flight from Guiyang to Los Angeles?
The flight from Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport (KWE) to Los Angeles International (LAX) takes about 14 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 7,314 miles (11,771 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Guiyang to Los Angeles flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Tibetan Plateau's eastern margin, passing over the Hengduan Mountains and Sichuan Basin. Over central China, expect views of the Qinling Mountains and Yellow River valley. Crossing into Mongolia and Russia, the terrain becomes increasingly sparse with vast steppe and taiga forests. Over the North Pacific, no landmarks visible. Approaching North America, the Rocky Mountains and Sierra Nevada become prominent on the descent into California.