While left wins on takeoff, right provides superior views for the longer landing sequence and the dramatic Tian Shan approach. The flight path itself crosses the Tian Shan range, making southern views more rewarding overall.
Flown PEK to TAS? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Beijing to Tashkent is 2,450 miles (3,943 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
The flight crosses the Tian Shan Mountains (central range running east-west at roughly 43°N, 80°E). You'll pass over the Issyk-Kul basin area and the high plateaus of Kyrgyzstan. The Fergana Valley becomes visible on approach to Tashkent. Expect to see dramatic mountain terrain with snow-capped peaks during winter/spring, and the transition from Chinese desert steppe to Central Asian irrigated valleys.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from PEK
LEFTPEK typically departs northwestbound (Runway 01L/R or 16L/R depending on wind). Left seats face toward the Great Wall sections near Huairou District and the Yanqing Mountains as you climb northwest. Right seats see the urban sprawl of Beijing's eastern suburbs.
Landing at TAS
RIGHTTAS approaches from the northwest (typically Runway 10L/R). Right seats face south and southeast during descent, offering views of the Tashkent urban area, the Chirchik River, and the Tian Shan foothills. Left seats see mostly the steppe to the north.
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 Capital (PEK) to Tashkent International Airport (TAS)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Beijing to Tashkent. While left wins on takeoff, right provides superior views for the longer landing sequence and the dramatic Tian Shan approach. The flight path itself crosses the Tian Shan range, making southern views more rewarding overall.
What can I see during takeoff from Capital in Beijing?
During takeoff from Capital (PEK), sit on the Left side for the best views. PEK typically departs northwestbound (Runway 01L/R or 16L/R depending on wind). Left seats face toward the Great Wall sections near Huairou District and the Yanqing Mountains as you climb northwest. Right seats see the urban sprawl of Beijing's eastern suburbs. Notable sights include: Great Wall of China (Huairou and Yanqing sections), Yanqing Mountains, Ming Tombs area, Chaobai River valley.
What can I see when landing at Tashkent International Airport in Tashkent?
When landing at Tashkent International Airport (TAS), sit on the Right side for the best views. TAS approaches from the northwest (typically Runway 10L/R). Right seats face south and southeast during descent, offering views of the Tashkent urban area, the Chirchik River, and the Tian Shan foothills. Left seats see mostly the steppe to the north. Notable sights include: Tashkent city grid and Oliy Majlis area, Chirchik River, Tian Shan Mountains (southern horizon), Uzbek steppe.
How long is the flight from Beijing to Tashkent?
The flight from Capital (PEK) to Tashkent International Airport (TAS) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,450 miles (3,943 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Beijing to Tashkent flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Tian Shan Mountains (central range running east-west at roughly 43°N, 80°E). You'll pass over the Issyk-Kul basin area and the high plateaus of Kyrgyzstan. The Fergana Valley becomes visible on approach to Tashkent. Expect to see dramatic mountain terrain with snow-capped peaks during winter/spring, and the transition from Chinese desert steppe to Central Asian irrigated valleys.