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PEK → PVG
Which side of the plane to sit from Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing) to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the Bohai Sea coastline and a more scenic approach over the Yangtze River Delta and Chongming Island.
Tianjin Port
One of the busiest ports in the world, visible shortly after departure as the plane crosses the coast.
Bohai Gulf
Extensive views of the coastline where the North China Plain meets the yellow-tinted waters of the gulf.
Yellow River Delta
Witness the intricate sediment patterns where China's second-longest river meets the sea.
Chongming Island
A massive alluvial island at the mouth of the Yangtze River, often seen clearly during the descent into PVG.
Donghai Bridge
On final approach, you can often see this 32km sea bridge connecting the mainland to the Yangshan Deep Water Port.
Opt for the left side on morning flights to see the sunrise over the Pacific horizon. During the descent, the left side usually provides a cleaner view of the massive cargo ships waiting at the mouth of the Yangtze. In winter, clear skies over the Bohai Gulf make for excellent photography of the coastline.
Beijing Skyline
Depending on departure patterns, the right side may offer views of the sprawling capital city and the CBD.
Mount Tai (Taishan)
The most famous of China's Five Sacred Mountains, visible as a prominent peak in central Shandong province.
Grand Canal
Segments of the ancient Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal can be spotted snaking through the plains of Jiangsu.
Hongze Lake
A vast freshwater lake in Jiangsu that appears as a massive silver sheet of water mid-flight.
Suzhou and Wuxi
Dense urban clusters with high-rises and interconnected waterways visible during the initial stages of descent.
The right side is the best choice for afternoon flights to enjoy the sunset without the direct glare found on the left. Keep an eye out for Mount Tai roughly 30-40 minutes into the flight; it stands out significantly from the surrounding flat terrain. Use a polarising filter to cut through the haze often present over the inland plains.
Distance: 1,100 km (684 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 28 min
Departure: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Arrival: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)
Route Type: Domestic
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