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PVG → SYX
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai) to Sanya Phoenix International Airport (Sanya)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior mix of diverse land-based scenery. You get the best views of the Shanghai sprawl upon takeoff, the rugged mountains of Fujian, the industrial heart of the Pearl River Delta, and the tropical rainforests of central Hainan during the descent.
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Shanghai Urban Sprawl
Immediate views of the massive urban development surrounding Pudong and the Yangtze River delta.
Hangzhou Bay Bridge
One of the longest trans-oceanic bridges in the world can be seen early in the flight.
Wuyi Mountains
Distant views of the jagged peaks and dense green forests of Fujian province.
Greater Bay Area
The massive lights and infrastructure of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen-Guangzhou megalopolis on clear nights.
Hainan Interior
Lush tropical mountains and agricultural valleys as the plane cuts across the island toward Sanya.
The right side is more consistently interesting for geography lovers. You will follow the coastline for much of the flight, offering views of both land and sea. On afternoon flights, use the window shade to block the direct western sun. This side is particularly impressive during the descent over the Leizhou Peninsula and into the central mountains of Hainan.
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Zhoushan Archipelago
A stunning collection of islands in the East China Sea visible shortly after departure from PVG.
Taiwan Strait
Expansive views of the deep blue waters and major international shipping lanes.
South China Sea
Watch the water change from a muddy coastal brown to a brilliant turquoise as you move south.
Nanshan Guanyin
The iconic 108-meter tall white statue is often visible on the left side during the final approach to SYX Runway 08.
The left side is the 'climax' side. While much of the mid-flight is over open water, the approach into Sanya is spectacular. Sit on this side for the best chance to see the Nanshan Guanyin statue rising from the sea. Try to book a morning flight to avoid the sun's glare on the water during this southbound journey.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 1,896 km (1,178 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 32 min
Departure: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)
Arrival: SYX (18.30290031433105, 109.41200256347656)
Route Type: Domestic
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