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YVRPVG

Our Recommendation
8.8

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏔️

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌲

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.

Top Activities in Shanghai
Route Information

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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