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AMS → PVG
Which side of the plane to sit from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam) to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai)?
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.
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.
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.
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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