Loading map...
PVG → YCU
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai) to Yuncheng Guangong Airport (Yuncheng)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior vantage point for the massive Lake Taihu after takeoff, the sprawling cityscape of Nanjing, and a spectacular view of the vibrant Yuncheng Salt Lake during the final descent.
Lake Taihu
Aerial view of China's third-largest freshwater lake, featuring its numerous islands and the scenic coastline of Wuxi and Suzhou.
Nanjing Metropolis
The historic capital city's skyline and the massive Yangtze River bridges are clearly visible shortly after reaching cruise altitude.
Qinling Mountains
The northern foothills of this major mountain range, representing the natural boundary between North and South China.
Yellow River Bend
The iconic silty waters of the Yellow River as it snakes through the border regions of Henan and Shanxi provinces.
Yuncheng Salt Lake
Known as the 'Dead Sea of China,' this lake displays stunning patches of pink, green, and yellow due to algae and mineral content during approach.
For afternoon flights, the left side provides excellent sunset views over the Loess Plateau. Ensure you are seated well clear of the wing to capture the vibrant color variations of the Salt Lake, which are most vivid in late summer and autumn. Keep an eye out about 15 minutes before landing for the most dramatic river views.
Chongming Island
The world's largest alluvial island, visible immediately after departure from PVG depending on take-off direction.
Jiangsu Water Towns
A dense network of ancient canals and modern agricultural grids characteristic of the Yangtze River Delta.
Mount Song (Songshan)
One of the Five Great Mountains of China, home to the world-famous Shaolin Temple, visible in the distance over Henan.
Loess Plateau Terraces
The unique, highly eroded landscape of Central China, featuring intricate terracing and deep canyons.
Morning flights are ideal for the right side to avoid the direct glare of the southern sun. This side offers better views of the Northern Jiangsu plains and the dramatic transition into the dry, terraced landscapes of the Loess Plateau as you enter Shanxi airspace. Look for the unique 'Yaodong' (cave dwellings) dotting the hillsides near Yuncheng.
Distance: 1,095 km (680 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 28 min
Departure: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)
Arrival: YCU (35.116391, 111.031388889)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.