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SHA → CIH
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Shanghai) to Changzhi Airport (Changzhi)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides an exceptional vantage point for the iconic crossing of the Yellow River and a more direct view of the dramatic Taihang Mountain escarpment during the descent into Changzhi.
The Yangtze River
Observe the massive scale of the Yangtze River as the flight tracks northwest from the Shanghai coast.
Zhengzhou Metropolis
The sprawling skyline of Henan's capital is often visible mid-flight depending on the specific air corridor.
The Yellow River
A highlight of the trip, crossing the silt-rich, golden-hued waters of China's 'Mother River' near Henan.
Taihang Escarpment
Dramatic views of the massive mountain wall that separates the North China Plain from the Loess Plateau.
Changzhi Basin
A unique view of the industrial and geographic layout of the Changzhi valley during the final approach.
The right side is the prime spot for photography of the Yellow River crossing. For the best visibility of the Taihang Mountains, mid-day flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the eastern cliffs. Be prepared for some turbulence when crossing the mountain front, and keep your camera ready for the steep, terraced landscapes characteristic of Shanxi province.
Yangtze Delta Urbanism
Panoramic views of the dense urban clusters of Suzhou and Wuxi shortly after departing Shanghai.
Taihu Lake
A vast view of China's third-largest freshwater lake, often shimmering under the southern sun.
Anhui Farmlands
Intricate patchwork patterns of agricultural fields across the North China Plain.
Southern Taihang Ridges
Aerial perspectives of the deep canyons and rugged peaks as you enter the Shanxi plateau.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. During the final 20 minutes of flight, watch for the sudden transition from the flat plains to the high-altitude basins of Shanxi. In winter, the snow-capped southern ridges of the Taihang Mountains are particularly striking from this side.
Distance: 944 km (587 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)
Arrival: CIH (36.247501, 113.125999)
Route Type: Domestic
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