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YYZ → PVG
Which side of the plane to sit from Lester B. Pearson International Airport (Toronto) to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the High Arctic ice fields and the rugged Siberian mountain ranges. Because the flight path typically tracks very far north, the right side faces away from the direct sun for much of the journey, reducing glare and providing clearer views of the desolate polar landscapes and the vast Russian Far East.
Canadian Shield
An endless mosaic of ancient rock, boreal forest, and millions of tiny lakes stretching toward the Arctic Circle.
Polar Ice Cap
Stunning views of the Arctic Archipelago and the fractured sea ice of the high latitudes, often visible for several hours.
Stanovoy Range
The rugged, snow-dusted peaks of the Russian Far East, providing a stark contrast to the flat Siberian plains.
Manchurian Steppe
The transition from the arid landscapes of Northern China into the fertile, organized agricultural grids of the northeast.
The right side is the prime choice for viewing the Aurora Borealis if your flight takes place during the winter months and traverses the polar region in darkness. Throughout the long middle segment of the flight, the northern orientation of these windows minimizes sun glare, making it much easier to keep your window shade open and observe the high-altitude terrain of Siberia without overheating the cabin area.
Toronto Skyline
Aerial perspectives of the CN Tower, Lake Ontario, and the dense urban sprawl of the Greater Toronto Area during initial climb.
Hudson Bay Shoreline
The western edge of the bay where the subarctic tundra meets the water, often featuring dramatic seasonal ice formations.
Amur River
The winding natural border between Russia and China, characterized by intricate oxbow lakes and heavy silt deposits.
Shanghai Metropolis
The sprawling neon landscape of the Yangtze River Delta and the massive port facilities as you approach Pudong.
Sit on the left for the best chance of seeing the Toronto skyline upon departure if the wind dictates a westward takeoff. During the final approach into PVG, this side often provides a glimpse of the East China Sea coastline and the mouth of the Yangtze River. If the flight arrives in the morning, be prepared for bright sunlight on this side during the final third of the journey.
Distance: 11,414 km (7,092 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 13 hrs 26 min
Departure: YYZ (43.6772003174, -79.63059997559999)
Arrival: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)
Route Type: International
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