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SHA → TYN
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Shanghai) to Taiyuan Wusu Airport (Taiyuan)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most diverse geographic transition, starting with the sprawling water networks of the Yangtze Delta, moving into the industrial heart of central China, and concluding with the dramatic, carved landscapes of the Loess Plateau.
Taihu Lake
Shortly after takeoff, view the expansive waters of China's third-largest freshwater lake and the intricate canal networks of Suzhou.
Zhengzhou Metropolis
A clear view of the sprawling capital of Henan province, a major railway and economic hub in central China.
Yellow River S-Curves
The flight crosses the 'Mother River' of China, showing its distinctive silt-heavy yellow waters snaking through the plains.
Loess Plateau Terraces
As you enter Shanxi, the landscape transforms into unique, ancient terraced farming hills and deep silt canyons.
Songshan Mountain
On clear days, the sacred mountain home of the Shaolin Temple is visible to the southwest of the flight path.
For the best photography of the Loess Plateau's unique textures, choose a seat behind the wing. In the afternoon, the sun will be on this side, providing high-contrast shadows that define the plateau's ridges. Be sure to look out about 45 minutes after departure for the transition from green plains to yellow earth.
Yangtze River Estuary
Observe the massive shipping traffic and the wide expanse of the Yangtze River as the plane turns inland from Shanghai.
Nanjing Skyline
A great perspective of the ancient capital, including the Purple Mountain and the urban development along the riverbanks.
Anhui Farmlands
A patchwork of agricultural fields that change colors dramatically with the seasons, from bright green to golden yellow.
Taihang Mountains
During the descent into Taiyuan, the rugged peaks and deep valleys of the Taihang range appear to the north.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. It provides a better view of the northern bank of the Yangtze River and the distant silhouettes of the northern mountain ranges. Keep your camera ready during the initial 20 minutes for the most dense urban and river views.
Distance: 1,080 km (671 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 26 min
Departure: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)
Arrival: TYN (37.74689865112305, 112.62799835205078)
Route Type: Domestic
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