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KMG → SHA
Which side of the plane to sit from Kunming Changshui International Airport (Kunming) to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Shanghai)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more consistent view of the winding Yangtze River as you approach the delta, along with better views of the Northern Yangtze Delta cities and the vast Taihu Lake during the descent into Shanghai.
Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau
Stunning views of the rugged, high-altitude karst topography and deep valleys as you depart Kunming.
Middle Yangtze River
Watch the massive Yangtze River snake through the landscape near the border of Anhui and Jiangsu provinces.
Wuhan Metropolitan Area
On clear days, the massive urban sprawl of Wuhan and its numerous lakes can be spotted to the north.
Taihu Lake
One of China's largest freshwater lakes, appearing as a massive blue expanse just before the descent into Shanghai.
Suzhou Water Towns
The intricate network of canals and modern urban planning of Suzhou are visible during the final approach.
Book a window seat ahead of the wing for unobstructed views of the Yangtze Delta. Morning flights provide excellent lighting for the left side without the direct glare of the southern sun. Look for the distinct 'H'-shaped patterns of the high-speed rail lines crossing the landscape.
Dianchi Lake
Immediately after takeoff from KMG, catch a glimpse of the 'Sparkling Pearl of the Highland' to the south of the city.
Fanjingshan Mountains
The distinctive peaks of the Wuling range in Guizhou province rise sharply from the clouds.
Poyang Lake
As you cross Jiangxi, the southern side offers a great perspective of China's largest freshwater lake and its wetlands.
Huangshan (Yellow Mountain)
Depending on the flight corridor, the granite peaks of this UNESCO World Heritage site may be visible in southern Anhui.
Hangzhou Bay
During the southern approach into Hongqiao, you can see the distant coastline and the mouth of the Qiantang River.
The right side is better for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh western sun during the latter half of the journey. Keep an eye out for the unique karst formations in Guizhou early in the flight, which are particularly dramatic during the 'Golden Hour' before sunset.
Distance: 1,925 km (1,196 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 34 min
Departure: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)
Arrival: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)
Route Type: Domestic
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