Loading map...
SHA → CSX
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Shanghai) to Changsha Huanghua International Airport (Changcha)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of China's iconic water bodies, including the massive Lake Tai, the winding Yangtze River to the north, and the vast expanse of Poyang Lake during the midpoint of the flight.
Shanghai Urban Sprawl
Immediate views of the dense Minhang and Qingpu districts of Shanghai right after departing Hongqiao.
Lake Tai (Taihu)
A magnificent view of China's third-largest freshwater lake, featuring its unique heart-like shape and numerous islands.
The Yangtze River
The mighty Yangtze is often visible to the north, appearing as a silver ribbon with heavy vessel traffic.
Poyang Lake
Cruising over northern Jiangxi offers a look at the massive Poyang Lake basin, which changes dramatically between wet and dry seasons.
Changsha North Hub
Aerial perspective of the heavy industrial development and new residential blocks in northern Changsha before landing.
Sit on the right for the best geographical landmarks. The flight path typically stays north of the scenic mountains, making the water bodies on the right more distinct. Morning flights offer the best lighting for photography of Lake Tai and Poyang Lake without the midday haze.
Hangzhou Bay Fringe
Distant views of the Qiantang River estuary and the industrial hubs south of Shanghai shortly after takeoff.
Zhejiang Highlands
The rolling green peaks of western Zhejiang, home to famous tea plantations and the Moganshan mountain range.
Jiangxi Forested Hills
Dense subtropical evergreen forests and winding valley roads throughout the central Jiangxi province.
Downtown Changsha
A panoramic view of the Xiang River and the burgeoning skyline of central Changsha during the final descent.
The left side is preferable for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh southern sun glare. On late afternoon departures, this side provides a spectacular view of the sunset over the Hunanese hills as you approach Changsha.
Distance: 852 km (529 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)
Arrival: CSX (28.189199447600004, 113.220001221)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.