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SWA destination photo
SHA destination photo

SWASHA

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a superior view of the dramatic coastline, numerous islands in the Zhoushan Archipelago, and the vast maritime activity of the East China Sea.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏖️

Coastal Indentations

Stunning views of the jagged coastline with turquoise bays and white sandy beaches near Quanzhou.

🏝️

Meizhou Island

The sacred birthplace of Mazu is often visible as a distinct emerald island in the blue strait.

🛳️

Ningbo-Zhoushan Port

Observe one of the world's busiest maritime hubs with hundreds of cargo ships waiting at anchor.

🌉

Zhoushan Archipelago

A breathtaking view of hundreds of small islands and the massive bridge networks connecting them to the mainland.

🚢

Yangtze River Mouth

See the sediment-rich waters of the Yangtze meeting the blue sea, creating a sharp color contrast.

🏙️

Lujiazui Skyline

On clear days during the approach to SHA, the distant skyscrapers of Pudong including the Shanghai Tower are visible.

Afternoon flights are ideal for the right side as the sun moves behind the aircraft, illuminating the islands and ocean perfectly. Keep your camera ready about 20-30 minutes before landing to capture the Zhoushan islands and the massive container ships. Use a polarizing filter if possible to cut through the sea haze.

Left Side Highlights
7.6
⛰️

Fujian Highlands

View the rugged, mountainous interior of Fujian Province characterized by dense forests and hidden valleys.

🏙️

Fuzhou Metro

The flight passes directly over or near the Min River as it cuts through the urban sprawl of Fuzhou.

🗻

Yandang Mountains

Spot the distinctive rhyolite peaks and steep cliffs of this UNESCO Global Geopark in Zhejiang.

🏘️

Zhejiang Lowlands

Watch the transition into the flat, canal-rich plains of the Yangtze River Delta with traditional cluster housing.

🏗️

Shanghai Outskirts

A close-up look at the rapid industrial and residential expansion in the Songjiang and Qingpu districts.

Choose a window seat on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is better for observing the geological transition from the southern mountains to the northern alluvial plains. Look for the Sheshan Hill area during the final descent into Hongqiao.

Top Activities in Shanghai
Route Information

Distance: 975 km (606 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min

Departure: SWA (23.552, 116.5033)

Arrival: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)

Route Type: Domestic

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