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PVG → YVR
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai) to Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic views of the northern volcanic arcs and the rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest, including the Kamchatka Peninsula and Alaskan glaciers.
Hokkaido Coastline
Clear views of northern Japan's rugged eastern shores as the plane heads toward the North Pacific.
Kamchatka Volcanoes
Dramatic sights of the snow-capped volcanic peaks in the Russian Far East, including Klyuchevskaya Sopka.
Alaskan Panhandle Glaciers
Stunning vistas of massive ice fields and glaciers descending toward the ocean in the Gulf of Alaska.
BC Coast Mountains
Breathtaking views of the snow-covered Pacific Ranges as the flight follows the British Columbia coastline southward.
Sunshine Coast
Dense evergreen forests and intricate fjords visible just before the final descent into Vancouver.
Sit on the left to avoid direct sunlight for most of the eastbound journey, which is better for photography. The best views of the Kamchatka volcanoes occur roughly 4-5 hours into the flight. Ensure you have a window seat forward of the wing to capture the glaciers of the Alaskan panhandle without engine heat distortion.
Trans-Pacific Sunrise
Spectacular colors as the sun rises over the horizon while crossing the International Date Line.
North Pacific Expanse
Endless views of the deep blue Pacific Ocean and unique atmospheric cloud formations.
Vancouver Island
Aerial view of the rugged West Coast Trail and the dense forests of the southern island on approach.
Greater Vancouver Skyline
Excellent views of the city, Stanley Park, and the Lions Gate Bridge depending on the landing runway (Runway 08L).
The right side is ideal for travelers who enjoy the open ocean and want to see the sunset or sunrise. On arrival, if the plane lands from the west, you will get a great view of the Vancouver skyline and the Olympic Mountains to the south. However, expect more glare from the sun throughout the flight.
Distance: 9,016 km (5,602 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 36 min
Departure: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)
Arrival: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Route Type: International
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