Loading map...
SHA → GMP
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Shanghai) to Gimpo International Airport (Seoul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most consistent views of the geographic transition from the Yangtze delta to the mountainous Incheon coastline and the scenic Han River estuary.
Yangtze River Delta
Observe the massive urban and industrial landscape of northern Shanghai and the Yangtze river mouth shortly after takeoff.
Chongming Island
A birds-eye view of China's largest alluvial island, offering a green contrast to the city sprawl.
Yellow Sea Crossing
A vast oceanic stretch where you can see numerous cargo ships in the international shipping lanes.
Ganghwa Island
A large, historic island near the northern border, visible during the initial approach to Korea.
Incheon Grand Bridge
An impressive view of the massive cable-stayed bridge that connects Yeongjong Island to the Korean mainland.
Han River Estuary
The point where the Han River meets the West Sea, marking the final descent path into Gimpo.
Choose a window seat on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. This side typically provides a better angle of the Incheon archipelago and the northern mountains of Seoul. During winter, look for ice formations along the riverbanks near the estuary.
Pudong Skyline
A distant but clear view of the Lujiazui financial district skyscrapers including the Shanghai Tower.
East China Sea Traffic
Dense maritime activity featuring tankers and container ships visible from high altitude over the sea.
Songdo New City
The futuristic smart-city skyline of Incheon, known for its unique architectural designs and coastal parks.
Gyeonggi Mountains
The rugged, forested peaks of the southern Gyeonggi province that provide a scenic backdrop during the landing phase.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to catch the sunset over the Yellow Sea. This side provides a superior view of the Songdo International Business District and the southern residential clusters of Incheon. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the best coastal shots.
Distance: 866 km (538 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min
Departure: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)
Arrival: GMP (37.5583, 126.791)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.