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YIH → SHA
Which side of the plane to sit from Yichang Sanxia Airport (Yichang) to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Shanghai)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the Yangtze River's southern banks, the massive expanse of Lake Taihu, and the iconic Shanghai city skyline during the descent into Hongqiao Airport.
Yangtze Main Channel
Consistent views of the river's winding path, heavy barge traffic, and massive suspension bridges.
Jianghan Plain
A mesmerizing patchwork of rice paddies, irrigation canals, and intensive aquaculture ponds.
Lake Taihu
One of China's largest freshwater lakes, recognizable by its vast circular shape and numerous islands.
Shanghai Skyline
On clear days during the final approach, the Lujiazui financial district towers are visible to the east.
Hongqiao Approach
Low-altitude views of the dense residential and commercial districts of western Shanghai.
The right side is perfect for morning flights. Keep a close watch roughly 20 minutes before landing to see Lake Taihu. As you descend, the right side usually provides the best angle to see the Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl Tower if visibility allows.
Dabie Mountains
The northern horizon features the rugged, green-covered peaks marking the border between Hubei and Anhui provinces.
Wuhan Metropolis
Visible as a massive urban sprawl centered around the intersection of the Yangtze and Han Rivers.
Lake Chaohu
A prominent freshwater lake near Hefei, often reflecting sunlight during the midday portion of the flight.
Yangtze Delta Sprawl
The dense, nearly continuous urban landscape stretching from Nanjing through Suzhou toward the coast.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. This side is ideal for spotting the northern mountain ranges and the industrial clusters of the Yangtze's northern bank.
Distance: 943 km (586 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: YIH (30.55655, 111.479988)
Arrival: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)
Route Type: Domestic
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