Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery at departure (Aegean islands and coastline) and offer reasonable views during the long cruise phase over Central Asia. While left wins at landing, the takeoff experience is more visually rewarding on this route.
Flown ATH to PVG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Athens to Shanghai is 5,317 miles (8,558 km), a flight of about 11 hours 30 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Anatolian Plateau (Turkey), the Taurus Mountains, the Mesopotamian plains (Iraq/Syria), the Zagros Mountains (Iran), the Iranian plateau, the Hindu Kush and Pamir ranges (Afghanistan/Tajikistan border region), and the Taklamakan Desert (western China). Right-side seats offer better views of the Taurus Mountains and Zagros ranges during daylight cruise; left-side seats may catch views of the Pamir and Hindu Kush depending on exact routing and time of day.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from ATH
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Saronic Gulf and Aegean Sea immediately after departure. The aircraft climbs northeast over water, giving clear sightlines to the Greek coastline and islands before turning east toward the flight corridor.
Landing at PVG
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the Yangtze River delta and Shanghai's urban sprawl during descent. The aircraft approaches from the northwest, and left-side windows face the Huangpu River, Pudong's skyline, and the distinctive geometry of Shanghai's development.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Athens to Shanghai. Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery at departure (Aegean islands and coastline) and offer reasonable views during the long cruise phase over Central Asia. While left wins at landing, the takeoff experience is more visually rewarding on this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos in Athens?
During takeoff from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Saronic Gulf and Aegean Sea immediately after departure. The aircraft climbs northeast over water, giving clear sightlines to the Greek coastline and islands before turning east toward the flight corridor. Notable sights include: Saronic Gulf, Aegean Sea coastline, Mount Hymettus (to the left but visible from right side during climb), Attica Peninsula.
What can I see when landing at Shanghai Pudong International in Shanghai?
When landing at Shanghai Pudong International (PVG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Yangtze River delta and Shanghai's urban sprawl during descent. The aircraft approaches from the northwest, and left-side windows face the Huangpu River, Pudong's skyline, and the distinctive geometry of Shanghai's development. Notable sights include: Yangtze River delta, Huangpu River, Pudong financial district skyline, Hangzhou Bay.
How long is the flight from Athens to Shanghai?
The flight from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) takes about 11 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,317 miles (8,558 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Athens to Shanghai flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Anatolian Plateau (Turkey), the Taurus Mountains, the Mesopotamian plains (Iraq/Syria), the Zagros Mountains (Iran), the Iranian plateau, the Hindu Kush and Pamir ranges (Afghanistan/Tajikistan border region), and the Taklamakan Desert (western China). Right-side seats offer better views of the Taurus Mountains and Zagros ranges during daylight cruise; left-side seats may catch views of the Pamir and Hindu Kush depending on exact routing and time of day.