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BAV → SHA
Which side of the plane to sit from Baotou Airport (Baotou) to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Shanghai)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular views of the Yellow River's great bend, the unique erosion patterns of the Loess Plateau, and a stunning aerial approach over Taihu Lake and Suzhou before landing in Shanghai.
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Yellow River Bend
Witness the dramatic 'U' turn of the Yellow River as it carves through the northern geological strata.
Loess Plateau
Exceptional views of the highly eroded, silt-rich landscape with its intricate terraced farming patterns.
Historical Xuzhou
View of the ancient crossroads city where major north-south and east-west rail and water routes intersect.
Taihu Lake
The highlight of the descent, showing the vast lake dotted with fishing boats and surrounded by lush green hills.
Suzhou Water Towns
The intricate network of ancient and modern canals that give the region its 'Venice of the East' reputation.
The right side is superior for the descent into SHA, as flight paths often pass directly over Taihu Lake. Book a morning flight for the best lighting on the Loess Plateau. In winter, look for the contrast of light snow in the valleys of the plateau for stunning photography.
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Inner Mongolia Plateau
Vast stretches of arid landscape and the transition from the Mongolian steppes to central China.
Taihang Mountains
Rugged ridges and deep valleys marking the boundary between the plateau and the North China Plain.
Jinan Cityscape
Aerial view of the 'Spring City' and the surrounding mountainous terrain of Shandong province.
Hongze Lake
One of the largest freshwater lakes in China, visible as a massive blue expanse amidst the agricultural plains.
Yangtze Delta Network
A dense grid of canals, rivers, and industrial shipping lanes leading into the Shanghai metropolitan area.
Sit on the left for a better view of the northern edges of the Taihang range. If flying in the late afternoon, the left side is preferable to avoid the direct western sun glare, making it easier to photograph the landscape.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 1,456 km (905 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 56 min
Departure: BAV (40.560001373291016, 109.99700164794922)
Arrival: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)
Route Type: Domestic
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