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CTU → SHA
Which side of the plane to sit from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (Chengdu) to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Shanghai)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers a spectacular perspective of the Yangtze River's winding course and the vast, shimmering expanse of Lake Taihu during the descent into the Shanghai area.
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Longquan Mountains
The first geographic barrier east of Chengdu, offering a sharp contrast to the flat Chengdu Plain.
Yangtze River Meanders
Frequent views of the iconic river's silver ribbon as the flight path parallels its middle and lower reaches.
Lake Taihu
A stunning aerial view of China's third-largest freshwater lake, often appearing 20 minutes before touchdown.
Shanghai Skyline
Depending on the landing pattern, you may see the Puxi district and the distant Lujiazui financial towers.
Three Gorges Region
Distant glimpses of the mountainous terrain surrounding the massive hydro-electric projects near Yichang.
The right side is superior for scenic landmarks. For the best photography of Lake Taihu, fly during the late afternoon when the sun reflects off the water's surface. Ensure you have a window seat clear of the wing to capture the winding river patterns. In spring, the rapeseed fields in the Yangtze basin create vibrant yellow patches below.
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Chengdu Urban Core
Clear views of the dense skyscrapers and the radial ring road system of the Sichuan capital immediately after takeoff.
Dabie Mountains
Vast stretches of rugged, forested ridges throughout central China's Hubei and Anhui provinces.
Yangtze Crossings
Spot the massive infrastructure of the Nanjing Yangtze River bridges as the flight enters the delta region.
Suzhou Canals
The intricate network of ancient waterways and modern industrial parks of Suzhou just before landing.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. This side provides a better view of the northern suburbs and the industrial powerhouses of the Yangtze River Delta during the final approach. Watch for the change from mountain terrain to flat, water-rich plains halfway through the flight.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 1,659 km (1,031 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 13 min
Departure: CTU (30.578500747680664, 103.9469985961914)
Arrival: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)
Route Type: Domestic
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