Loading map...
NAY → SHA
Which side of the plane to sit from Beijing Nanyuan Airport (Beijing) to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Shanghai)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior panoramic view of the vast inland water systems including the Grand Canal and the massive Taihu Lake, plus better lighting conditions for the frequent late-afternoon departures.
Beijing Urban Sprawl
A comprehensive view of the southern districts of Beijing immediately after departing the Nanyuan area.
Mount Tai
The silhouette of this sacred mountain is often visible in the distance when passing over Shandong.
The Grand Canal
Segments of the historic Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal can be spotted snaking through the plains.
Weishan Lake
A large, scenic freshwater lake in Shandong that stands out vividly against the agricultural landscape.
Taihu Lake
One of China's largest freshwater lakes, offering stunning views just before the final approach into Hongqiao.
Suzhou Cityscape
Views of the 'Venice of the East' with its network of canals and modern Gate to the East skyscraper.
Choose the right side for afternoon flights to enjoy spectacular sunset views over the North China Plain. Keep your camera ready as you pass Suzhou; the transition from the vast Taihu Lake to the dense urban environment of Shanghai is visually striking.
Tianjin Skyline
Visible shortly after takeoff, providing a clear view of the Binhai area and urban density.
Bohai Gulf
On clear days, the shimmering waters of the Bohai Sea are visible to the east as you head south.
Yellow River Delta
The intricate, silty channels where the Yellow River approaches the sea in Shandong province.
Yangtze Estuary
Massive cargo ships and the impressive bridges connecting the northern banks to the delta.
Pudong Skyscrapers
If the landing pattern approaches from the north, you get a distant glimpse of the Lujiazui towers.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is better for observing the heavy maritime traffic near the mouth of the Yangtze River during the final descent into Shanghai.
Distance: 1,054 km (655 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 24 min
Departure: NAY (39.78279876708984, 116.38800048828124)
Arrival: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.