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PVG → SYD
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai) to Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for witnessing the dramatic transition from the lush mountains of Papua New Guinea to the stunning Australian coastline and the Great Barrier Reef.
Owen Stanley Range
The rugged, cloud-shrouded volcanic peaks and dense rainforests of central Papua New Guinea.
Great Barrier Reef
Vibrant turquoise coral formations and sand cays visible as the plane enters Australian airspace over Queensland.
Gold Coast Skyline
The iconic high-rise strip of Surfers Paradise meeting the breaking waves of the Pacific.
Coastal Transition
A clear view of the contrast between the lush green coastal forests and the beginning of the red Australian interior.
Blue Mountains
Deep sandstone gorges and hazy blue eucalyptus forests visible during the descent into the Sydney basin.
The right side is best for land-based scenery. Most PVG-SYD flights are overnight; as you fly south during the morning, the sun will be on the left, meaning the right side has better lighting for photography without glare. Keep your window shade open as you pass over PNG and the Queensland coast for the best reef views.
East China Sea
Initial views of the archipelago and busy shipping lanes shortly after departing Shanghai.
Pacific Sunrise
Breathtaking views of the sun rising over the open ocean horizon during the final hours of the flight.
Solomon Sea Islands
Small, isolated tropical atolls and coral reefs scattered across the deep blue waters.
Sydney Harbour
Prime views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and CBD if the flight performs a northern approach.
Sit on the left if you prioritize a peaceful sunrise over the Pacific. This side is also the 'money shot' side for the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House if the wind conditions require a landing from the north (Runway 16), which is common in clear weather.
Distance: 7,865 km (4,887 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 15 min
Departure: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)
Arrival: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Route Type: International
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