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AMS destination photo
PVG destination photo

AMSPVG

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a superior vantage point for the dramatic Caucasus and Tian Shan mountain ranges, the southern Caspian Sea, and the scenic descent over the Yangtze River delta into Shanghai.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏔️

Caucasus Mountains

Stunning views of the high-altitude peaks, including the majestic Mount Elbrus, separating Europe and Asia.

🌊

Caspian Sea

Crossing the world's largest inland body of water, often showing turquoise coastal patterns near Azerbaijan.

🏔️

Tian Shan Range

Known as the 'Heavenly Mountains,' these offer spectacular glacier-capped peaks and deep valleys in Western China.

🏜️

Taklamakan Desert Edge

The shifting sands and unique geological formations along the ancient Silk Road route.

🐉

Yangtze River Delta

The intricate network of waterways and industrial hubs as the flight nears the Chinese coast.

🏙️

Shanghai Skyline

Depending on the landing pattern, views of the Lujiazui skyscrapers and the Bund are often visible on the right during descent.

The right side is highly recommended for the approach into Pudong. Aim for a window seat away from the wing to see the Caucasus roughly 4 hours after departure. Seasonal winter flights offer particularly sharp, clear views of the snow-covered Tian Shan range.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Black Sea Northern Coast

Aerial views of the vast dark waters and the Crimean coastline during the early stages of the journey.

🌾

Kazakh Steppe

An endless expanse of golden grasslands and remote settlements across Central Asia.

🏔️

Altai Mountains

Distant views of the rugged, snow-dusted peaks where Russia, China, and Mongolia meet.

🏜️

Northern Gobi Desert

The stark, beautiful transition from the Siberian fringes to the rocky outcrops of the Mongolian plateau.

The left side is ideal for capturing the vastness of the Eurasian landmass. Since this is an eastbound flight, lighting is best in the early morning for the final leg into China. Expect long stretches of uninhabited terrain over Kazakhstan.

Top Activities in Shanghai
Route Information

Distance: 8,910 km (5,536 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 29 min

Departure: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)

Arrival: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)

Route Type: International

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