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HDG → SHA
Which side of the plane to sit from Handan Airport (Handan) to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Shanghai)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers spectacular views of the Yangtze River Delta's intricate water networks and the iconic Shanghai skyline during the final approach into Hongqiao.
Mount Tai
Look east early in the flight to spot the silhouette of one of China's Five Great Mountains rising from the plain.
Yellow River
A major crossing of the winding Huanghe as the flight transitions south from the North China Plain.
Gaoyou Lake
One of the largest freshwater lakes in China, appearing as a vast blue expanse within the Jiangsu province.
Yangtze River Delta
View the dense network of shipping canals and the massive Yangtze River just before the final descent.
Lujiazui Skyline
On many approach paths to SHA, the left side provides distant but clear views of the world-famous Pudong skyscrapers.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to catch the sun glinting off the numerous lakes of Jiangsu. Ensure your window is clear for the descent, as the urban density of Shanghai and its surrounding satellite cities is a highlight.
Agricultural Grids
Observe the fascinating geometric patterns of farmland across the fertile North China Plain early in the journey.
Nanjing Metropolitan Area
The sprawling historic capital of Jiangsu can often be seen to the southwest during the mid-portion of the flight.
Lake Tai (Taihu)
A stunning view of this massive, island-dotted lake as you approach the southern border of the Jiangsu province.
Transport Corridors
Trace the intricate lines of the world's most advanced high-speed rail network connecting the major eastern hubs.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare from the east. It offers a superior view of the industrial and residential expansion of the Suzhou-Wuxi corridor during the descent phase.
Distance: 870 km (541 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min
Departure: HDG (36.5258333333, 114.425555556)
Arrival: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)
Route Type: Domestic
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