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FCO → PVG
Which side of the plane to sit from Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome) to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more consistent view of the spectacular Tianshan mountain range and the vast, high-contrast landscapes of the Gobi Desert while avoiding the harsh glare of the southern sun during day flights.
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The Eastern Alps
Glancing views of the snow-capped Julian Alps as the flight heads northeast from Italy.
Black Sea Coastline
Expansive views of the northern Black Sea and the unique geography of the Crimean Peninsula.
Kazakh Steppe
A vast expanse of Central Asian wilderness featuring unique geological formations and salt pans.
Tianshan Mountains
Dramatic, jagged snow-covered peaks known as the 'Heavenly Mountains' along the border of Kyrgyzstan and China.
Gobi Desert Dunes
The rolling sand dunes and arid basins of the Badain Jaran Desert in Inner Mongolia.
For the best lighting, aim for a flight that departs Rome in the evening; you will catch the Tianshan Mountains at sunrise. Ensure you sit well forward of the wing to avoid the massive Trent or GE engine exhaust which can blur the intricate details of the desert landscapes. During the descent into Shanghai, this side often sees the lights of the northern suburbs.
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Adriatic Archipelago
A stunning bird's-eye view of the Croatian islands and turquoise waters shortly after departure.
Caucasus Range
Rugged, high-altitude peaks visible to the south when traversing the Black Sea region.
Caspian Sea
Crossing the world's largest inland body of water, often revealing offshore oil rigs near Baku.
Loess Plateau
The highly eroded, yellow-tinted canyon landscapes of the Shaanxi and Shanxi provinces.
Yangtze River Mouth
The massive, silt-heavy Yangtze River meeting the East China Sea as you approach Shanghai Pudong.
The right side is superior for the first hour of the flight to see the Mediterranean and Balkan coastlines. However, be prepared for significant sun glare if flying during the day. On the approach to PVG, keep your camera ready for the massive cargo ships anchored in the East China Sea, which are often highly visible from this side.
Book Hotels in ShanghaiDistance: 9,170 km (5,698 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 47 min
Departure: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Arrival: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)
Route Type: International
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