Loading map...
PVG → BKI
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai) to Kota Kinabalu International Airport (Kota Kinabalu)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Chinese coastline during the cruise and an unparalleled perspective of the turquoise coral reefs and tropical islands surrounding Kota Kinabalu during the final approach.
Shanghai Skyline
Aerial views of the Pudong financial district and the sprawling Yangtze River mouth shortly after takeoff.
Fujian Coastline
Detailed views of the rugged Chinese coastline, including bays and fishing villages along the South China Sea.
Paracel Islands
Vibrant coral atolls and remote islands dotting the deep blue waters of the South China Sea mid-flight.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Breathtaking views of Gaya, Sapi, and Manukan islands surrounded by coral reefs just minutes before touchdown.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid harsh direct sunlight. For the best experience, request a seat away from the wing to capture the vibrant turquoise colors of the marine park islands near Kota Kinabalu. During the winter monsoon (Nov-Feb), expect more cloud cover over the sea, making the coastal views at departure and arrival even more precious.
East China Sea
Expansive views of the ocean immediately after departing the Yangtze River Delta.
Taiwan Strait
On clear days, the distant silhouette of Taiwan's central mountain range can be seen to the east.
Mount Kinabalu
During the descent into Sabah, Southeast Asia's highest peak is often visible in the distance to the northeast.
Sabah North Coast
The rugged, forested coastline of northern Borneo as the plane aligns for its final approach.
Sit on the left for morning flights to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Pacific. As you begin your descent into BKI, keep your camera ready for Mount Kinabalu; it is most likely to be clear of clouds in the early morning before the daily tropical mist sets in.
Distance: 2,866 km (1,781 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 49 min
Departure: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)
Arrival: BKI (5.9372100830078125, 116.0510025024414)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.