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MLE → PVG
Which side of the plane to sit from Malé International Airport (Male) to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the sprawling Maldivian atolls upon departure, potential glimpses of Sri Lanka's lush interior, and the best vantage point for the iconic Shanghai approach over Hangzhou Bay.
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Kaafu Atoll Chain
Continuous views of the deep blue Indian Ocean punctuated by white-sand coral reef structures stretching south.
Sri Lanka Highlands
Depending on the airway, you may see the lush green peaks and tea plantations of Sri Lanka's Central Province.
South China Sea Coast
Tracking the rugged coastline and busy shipping lanes of the Gulf of Tonkin and Fujian province.
Hangzhou Bay Bridge
One of the world's longest trans-oceanic bridges is often visible during the descent into Pudong.
Pudong District
Spectacular views of Shanghai's urban sprawl and the unique architecture of the Pudong area during the final approach.
The right side is ideal for night flights to see the glittering lights of the Pearl River Delta and the massive Port of Shanghai. For the best photography of atolls, ensure you have a window seat away from the wing, as the descent into PVG can offer a wide-angle view of the East China Sea coastline.
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North Malé Atoll
Breathtaking views of turquoise lagoons and luxury island resorts immediately after departing MLE.
Andaman Sea
The remote and pristine islands of the Mergui Archipelago off the coast of Myanmar.
Guangxi Karst Peaks
The famous limestone 'sugarloaf' mountains of Southern China visible as the flight enters Chinese airspace.
Yangtze Delta
A vast network of canals, rivers, and dense industrial hubs as you approach the Shanghai metro area.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Maldivian capital, Malé, if the wind requires a northern departure. During the day, the karst mountains of Southern China are a major highlight; however, clouds often cover this region during the monsoon season (June to August).
Get eSIMs for Maldives
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 5,861 km (3,642 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 54 min
Departure: MLE (4.1918301582336435, 73.52909851074219)
Arrival: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)
Route Type: International
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