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SHA → CGD
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Shanghai) to Changde Airport (Changde)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for China's most significant freshwater systems, including the massive Lake Tai, long stretches of the Yangtze River, and the expansive Dongting Lake wetlands upon arrival.
Lake Tai (Taihu)
A massive, mirror-like freshwater lake that dominates the landscape shortly after takeoff from Hongqiao.
The Yangtze River
Excellent views of the winding 'Golden Waterway' and its busy shipping traffic throughout the mid-flight.
Northern Poyang Lake
Aerial perspective of the confluence where China's largest freshwater lake meets the Yangtze River.
Dongting Lake Basin
Spectacular views of the vast wetland systems and river networks during the descent into Changde.
Yuan River Delta
The intricate waterways surrounding Changde, historically known as the gateway to the Peach Blossom Spring.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as it remains in the shade. The highlight is the final 15-20 minutes of flight when the aircraft descends over the Dongting Lake region; ensure your window shade is up for the spectacular transition from river to wetlands.
Shanghai Urban Sprawl
Bird's-eye view of the Minhang and Qingpu districts' dense urban planning during initial climb.
Southern Anhui Hills
The misty, rolling green topography of the mountains south of the Yangtze River valley.
Hunan Rice Paddies
A vibrant green and yellow patchwork of agricultural fields as the plane enters the Hunan basin.
Select the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you and avoid glare. Keep an eye out for the high-speed rail corridors that frequently parallel the flight path through the Yangtze Delta.
Distance: 967 km (601 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 37 min
Departure: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)
Arrival: CGD (28.9188995361, 111.63999939)
Route Type: Domestic
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