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YIC → SHA
Which side of the plane to sit from Yichun Mingyueshan Airport (Yichun) to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Shanghai)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the vast water systems of the Yangtze River Delta, including the northern perspective of Poyang Lake and the dense urban canals of Suzhou on approach to Shanghai.
Mingyue Mountain Range
Dramatic views of the rugged peaks and dense forests surrounding Yichun immediately after takeoff.
Poyang Lake
The northern horizon showcases China's largest freshwater lake, particularly expansive during the summer wet season.
Suzhou Water Towns
As the flight descends, look for the intricate network of ancient canals and modern industrial parks in Suzhou.
Jiangsu Farmlands
A patchwork quilt of agricultural fields and aquaculture ponds characteristic of the Yangtze Delta.
Hongqiao Approach
A close-up view of the dense residential blocks of the Qingpu and Minhang districts during final descent.
Book an afternoon flight to have the sun behind the plane for the best lighting over the lakes. If landing from the west, you will see the full transition from Jiangxi mountains to the flat, water-logged plains of the Delta. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the Suzhou urban sprawl.
Jiangxi Uplands
Lush green rolling hills and terraced landscapes that dominate the first half of the journey.
Anhui Peaks
On clear days, the distant southern silhouettes of the Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) range can be spotted.
Taihu Lake Southern Shore
The southern edges of one of China's largest lakes, often dotted with fishing vessels.
Huangpu River Headwaters
Views of the river system that eventually flows through the heart of Shanghai's Bund.
Songjiang District
Views of the suburban development and the 'Thames Town' area of southern Shanghai during the descent.
Morning flights provide excellent lighting for the mountain ranges to the south. Look for the glint of sunlight on the numerous smaller reservoirs in the Anhui-Zhejiang border region. This side is generally quieter for photography during sunset flights as it avoids direct glare.
Distance: 778 km (483 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 18 min
Departure: YIC (27.8025, 114.3062)
Arrival: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)
Route Type: Domestic
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