While takeoff offers some mountain views, the landing approach into Nanjing provides more dramatic and sustained scenery, particularly the Yangtze River crossing and the city's geographic setting. Left seats capture the river and surrounding terrain more effectively during descent.
Flown PEK to NKG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Beijing to Nanjing is 590 miles (950 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Henan Province plains, Huai River valley, transition from North China Plain to Yangtze River basin, scattered lakes and reservoirs in central Jiangsu Province
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PEK
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the North China Plain's agricultural landscape and the Yanshan Mountains to the northwest as the aircraft climbs southward from Beijing Capital. The terrain transitions from urban sprawl to open farmland with visible field patterns.
Landing at NKG
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Nanjing, including the Yangtze River crossing and the city's position along the river valley. The approach path typically descends over the Yangtze's distinctive meanders and the surrounding plains.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Capital (PEK) to Lu Kou Airport (NKG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Beijing to Nanjing. While takeoff offers some mountain views, the landing approach into Nanjing provides more dramatic and sustained scenery, particularly the Yangtze River crossing and the city's geographic setting. Left seats capture the river and surrounding terrain more effectively during descent.
What can I see during takeoff from Capital in Beijing?
During takeoff from Capital (PEK), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the North China Plain's agricultural landscape and the Yanshan Mountains to the northwest as the aircraft climbs southward from Beijing Capital. The terrain transitions from urban sprawl to open farmland with visible field patterns. Notable sights include: Yanshan Mountains (northwest horizon), North China Plain agricultural grid, Miyun Reservoir (if visible during climb), urban Beijing sprawl receding northward.
What can I see when landing at Lu Kou Airport in Nanjing?
When landing at Lu Kou Airport (NKG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Nanjing, including the Yangtze River crossing and the city's position along the river valley. The approach path typically descends over the Yangtze's distinctive meanders and the surrounding plains. Notable sights include: Yangtze River with visible meanders and islands, Nanjing urban area along the river, Purple Mountain (Zijin Shan) to the east of the city, Anhui Province plains to the west.
How long is the flight from Beijing to Nanjing?
The flight from Capital (PEK) to Lu Kou Airport (NKG) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 590 miles (950 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Beijing to Nanjing flight path pass over?
Henan Province plains, Huai River valley, transition from North China Plain to Yangtze River basin, scattered lakes and reservoirs in central Jiangsu Province