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PVG → LHR
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai) to London Heathrow Airport (London)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this long-haul journey, primarily due to the lighting conditions in the Northern Hemisphere and the iconic final approach into London Heathrow which often passes directly over the city center.
Shanghai & Yangtze Delta
Dramatic views of the Bund, the Huangpu River, and the massive industrial ports of Shanghai upon departure.
The Gobi Desert
The golden expanse of the Inner Mongolian plateau and the rugged edges of the Altai Mountains.
Ural Mountains
The jagged, ancient ridge that marks the official geographic boundary between Asia and Europe.
Central European Cities
Depending on the specific flight path, you may see the lights or layouts of Warsaw and Berlin.
London City Tour
On the standard 'River' approach to LHR, the left side offers a stunning view of the Shard, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace.
For the best experience, choose a seat toward the front or rear of the wing to avoid view obstruction. Since most flights depart PVG in the morning or midday, the left side (south-facing) provides consistent, bright daylight for photography. On arrival in London, if the aircraft is landing towards the west (Runway 27L or 27R), the left side is essential for seeing the central London skyline.
Yellow Sea Coastline
A view of the northern Chinese coast and the Korean Peninsula across the water during the initial climb.
Lake Baikal
If taking a more northerly route, you can spot the world's deepest and oldest freshwater lake in Siberia.
Siberian Tundra
Breathtaking views of frozen river systems and untouched wilderness in the Russian north.
Baltic Sea & Scandinavia
Deep blue waters and the dense, dark green forests of Southern Sweden and Denmark.
North Sea Wind Farms
Impressive aerial perspectives of massive offshore wind installations as you approach the UK coast.
The right side is perfect for passengers who prefer softer, indirect light, as the sun will be on the opposite side of the plane for most of the journey. In winter months, keep your window shade open and eyes peeled for the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) during the transit over high latitudes. During descent into LHR, this side typically sees the northern suburbs and the Wembley Stadium arch.
Distance: 9,241 km (5,742 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 52 min
Departure: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)
Arrival: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)
Route Type: International
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