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PVG → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the Japanese archipelago, potential glimpses of the Aleutian Islands, and a stunning perspective of the North American coastline including the Pacific Northwest and the California mountain ranges during the descent.
Yangtze River Delta
Witness the massive scale of the Yangtze River meeting the East China Sea immediately after takeoff from Pudong.
Northern Japan
Clear views of the snow-capped peaks of Hokkaido or northern Honshu as the flight tracks toward the Pacific.
Aleutian Islands
On northern tracks, look out for the remote, volcanic island chain stretching across the Bering Sea.
Pacific Northwest
As you reach North America, the rugged coastlines of British Columbia and Washington state come into view.
San Francisco Bay
Often passes close enough to see the distinctive geography of the Bay Area and the Golden Gate.
Los Angeles Basin
A sprawling view of the San Gabriel Mountains and the urban grid of LA during the final approach.
The left side (Port) is generally preferred for photography because it faces away from the direct southern sun for much of the eastbound journey, reducing glare. If the flight path is northern, this side provides the best chance to see the Aleutian chain. During arrival, if the plane lands from the east, you will have a clear view of the Hollywood Sign and Downtown LA.
Pacific Sunrise
As you fly east against the Earth's rotation, the sunrise over the open ocean is exceptionally vibrant.
The Deep Pacific
Experience the immense, mesmerizing scale of the world's largest body of water for several hours.
Channel Islands
On the final approach to LAX, look for the rugged silhouettes of Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa islands.
Santa Monica Bay
Excellent views of the Southern California beaches and the iconic Santa Monica Pier just before touchdown.
Port of Long Beach
See the massive container ships and industrial infrastructure of one of the world's busiest ports.
Choose the right side (Starboard) if you enjoy ocean vistas and want to see the sun rising over the horizon. However, be prepared for intense sunlight and heat through the window during the middle portion of the flight. On the final descent into LAX, this side offers the best view of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean as the plane turns for its final approach.
Distance: 10,415 km (6,472 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 12 hrs 15 min
Departure: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: International
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