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PVG → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is superior due to its trajectory over the high latitudes, offering spectacular views of the Kamchatka volcanoes, the Alaskan wilderness, and the potential for Aurora Borealis during the night portion of the flight.
Kamchatka Peninsula
Aerial views of the rugged, volcanic coastline of eastern Russia and the Kuril Islands.
Alaskan Range
Stunning views of Denali and the snow-capped peaks of the northern Pacific Rim.
Arctic Tundra
Expansive views of the frozen landscapes of the Yukon and Northwest Territories.
Aurora Borealis
High probability of seeing the Northern Lights during the dark trans-polar segments of the journey.
Hudson Bay
A glimpse of the vast northern inland sea and its unique ice patterns depending on the season.
Northern Michigan
The dense forests and scattered lakes of the Upper Peninsula as you descend toward Detroit.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the Northern Lights during the middle 6 hours of the flight. If departing PVG in the morning, this side avoids direct glare during the crossing of the International Date Line. Keep your window shade slightly cracked in the dark to spot high-altitude atmospheric activity.
Japanese Archipelago
Potential views of the northern islands of Japan shortly after takeoff from Shanghai.
Pacific Horizon
Endless ocean vistas and dramatic sunrises as you cross the International Date Line.
British Columbia Coast
The intricate coastline and fjords of western Canada and Vancouver Island.
Canadian Rockies
Dramatic mountain scenery as the flight moves inland toward the central provinces.
Lake Michigan
Great views of the vast Great Lakes coastline during the final approach into DTW.
Detroit River & Skyline
A view of the Motor City's downtown and the border with Windsor, Canada, depending on wind direction.
The right side is ideal for sunset enthusiasts if the flight is timed for an evening arrival. On final descent, this side often offers a better look at the downtown Detroit skyline and the Ambassador Bridge. Use a polarizing filter for photos to cut through the high-altitude haze over the Pacific.
Distance: 11,462 km (7,122 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 13 hrs 29 min
Departure: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: International
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