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XIY destination photo
PVG destination photo

XIYPVG

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the geographic transition from the rugged Qinling Mountains to the lush Yangtze River Delta, including the iconic Lake Taihu and the expansive Shanghai urban skyline on approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Qinling Mountains

The massive mountain range that serves as the natural boundary between North and South China is visible to the south.

🌊

Yangtze River Crossing

A dramatic crossing of Asia's longest river, usually occurring near the cities of Wuhu or Nanjing.

🏮

Lake Taihu

One of China's largest freshwater lakes, famous for its islands and limestone formations, visible during the descent.

🏙️

Suzhou and Wuxi

Densely populated urban corridors and intricate canal networks characterizing the prosperous Jiangnan region.

🗼

Shanghai Skyline

On clear days with a western approach, catch glimpses of the Lujiazui skyscrapers and the Huangpu River.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to catch the sunset over the Yangtze delta. Be sure to look out for Lake Taihu roughly 20 minutes before landing, as its scale is best appreciated from cruising altitude. For the best skyline views, hope for a standard arrival path from the west.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Wei River Valley

Aerial views of the river that nurtured ancient Chinese civilization shortly after takeoff from Xi'an.

🌾

Yellow River Plains

Vast agricultural landscapes of Henan and Anhui provinces stretching toward the northern horizon.

🏙️

Zhengzhou Cityscape

A bird's-eye view of one of China's most important transportation hubs and the capital of Henan.

🏝️

Chongming Island

The world's largest alluvial island becomes visible as the plane descends toward the Yangtze estuary.

Choose the left side for softer morning light and a chance to see the northern stretches of the Yangtze River delta. This side is also better for avoiding direct glare if flying during the midday sun while heading eastward.

Top Activities in Shanghai
Route Information

Distance: 1,273 km (791 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 42 min

Departure: XIY (34.447102, 108.751999)

Arrival: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)

Route Type: Domestic

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