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YVR → PVG
Which side of the plane to sit from Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver) to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular front-row seat to the rugged coastlines of British Columbia and Alaska, the volcanic peaks of the Kamchatka Peninsula, and the massive Yangtze River estuary upon arrival.
North Shore Mountains
Immediate views of the snow-capped Lions and the stunning alpine terrain surrounding Vancouver right after takeoff.
Alaskan Panhandle
Breathtaking perspectives of massive glaciers and deep-cut fjords along the coastal range of Alaska.
Kamchatka Volcanoes
A rare view of the perfectly conical, snow-dusted volcanic peaks in eastern Russia, including Klyuchevskaya Sopka.
Bering Sea
Dramatic views of the Aleutian Island chain and seasonal sea ice during the northernmost segment of the Great Circle route.
Yangtze River Delta
The intricate network of canals, farmland, and the enormous brown-water estuary where the Yangtze meets the sea.
The right side is superior for geographic landforms. Keep your window shade open about 8-9 hours into the flight to catch the Kamchatka Peninsula. Since most YVR-PVG flights depart in the afternoon, the sun will be behind you or to the left, highlighting the Alaskan peaks perfectly without glare.
Vancouver Island
Aerial views of the lush, forested mountains and rugged western coastline of British Columbia's largest island.
North Pacific Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the deep blue Pacific and dramatic cloud formations during the transoceanic crossing.
Northern Japan Coast
Distant sightings of the Tohoku region and the northern Japanese coastline as the flight begins its descent toward China.
Shanghai Skyline
Possible views of the Lujiazui financial district and the Oriental Pearl Tower if the aircraft approaches PVG from the south.
East China Sea Shipping
Dense clusters of container ships and fishing vessels dotting the waters near one of the world's busiest ports.
Sit on the left for softer, indirect light during the majority of the westward journey, which is ideal for photography. If the wind dictates a southern approach into Shanghai, this side provides the best chance to see the city's iconic skyscrapers before touchdown.
Distance: 9,016 km (5,602 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 36 min
Departure: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Arrival: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)
Route Type: International
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