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IKA → PVG
Which side of the plane to sit from Imam Khomeini International Airport (Tehran) to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for viewing the world's most formidable mountain systems, including the Pamirs and the northern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, alongside striking desert patterns in Iran.
Dasht-e Kavir
Iran's Great Salt Desert, showcasing stunning geological swirls and white salt crusts from above.
The Pamir Knot
The 'Roof of the World,' where the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush ranges converge.
Kunlun Mountains
One of the longest mountain chains in Asia, marking the dramatic edge of the Tibetan Plateau.
Qinling Mountains
The major east-west mountain range that serves as the climate divide between North and South China.
Shanghai Skyline
Views of the Huangpu River and the Lujiazui financial district during the final approach to Pudong Airport.
The right side is essential for mountain enthusiasts. Early morning light provides perfect shadows for photographing the glaciated peaks of the Pamirs. Be sure to check the flight path as a more southern route may offer distant views of the Karakoram giants like K2.
Elburz Mountains
Craggy peaks and deep valleys situated immediately north of Tehran shortly after takeoff.
Caspian Sea Horizon
Glimpses of the southern coastline of the world's largest inland sea on the northern horizon.
Tian Shan Range
The 'Celestial Mountains' featuring massive snow-capped ridges along the Central Asian border.
Gobi Desert
Vast, desolate stretches of gravel plains and dunes across Northern China and Mongolia borders.
Yangtze River Delta
Dense urban sprawl and intricate canal networks as the flight descends into the Shanghai megalopolis.
Opt for the left side on afternoon flights to witness a spectacular sunset over the Gobi Desert. In winter, keep an eye out for frozen lakes in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. This side is also better for viewing the industrial heartland of China during the final hour of flight.
Distance: 6,443 km (4,003 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 35 min
Departure: IKA (35.416099548339844, 51.152198791503906)
Arrival: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)
Route Type: International
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