About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Bangkok International (BKK) to Hongqiao International (SHA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Bangkok to Shanghai. The right side captures Bangkok's river geography on departure and offers reasonable views of the Yangtze delta on arrival. The Chao Phraya River departure view is more distinctive and memorable than the Huangpu arrival view.
What can I see during takeoff from Bangkok International in Bangkok?
During takeoff from Bangkok International (BKK), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Chao Phraya River's distinctive meanders and Bangkok's urban sprawl as you climb northward. The river's serpentine pattern is unmistakable from altitude and dominates the initial climb-out view. Notable sights include: Chao Phraya River (multiple oxbow bends), Bangkok metropolitan area (grid of streets and canals), Tonle Sap Lake region to the northwest (visible as a large water body during clear conditions), Thai countryside transitioning to rice paddies.
What can I see when landing at Hongqiao International in Shanghai?
When landing at Hongqiao International (SHA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Huangpu River and Shanghai's Pudong skyline during descent into Hongqiao. The river's distinctive curve and the urban density of Shanghai's financial district are visually striking on approach. Notable sights include: Huangpu River (with characteristic bend near Pudong), Pudong financial district skyline, Yangtze River estuary (visible as broader water body to the north), Shanghai urban sprawl extending westward.
How long is the flight from Bangkok to Shanghai?
The flight from Bangkok International (BKK) to Hongqiao International (SHA) takes Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Bangkok to Shanghai flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses northern Thailand and Laos, passing east of the Phetchabun Mountains (visible as a north-south ridge during mid-flight if conditions allow), then transitions over the Mekong River valley. As you approach China, the terrain becomes more mountainous with the Wuyi Mountains visible on the left (west) side during the final descent phase. The landscape transitions from tropical Thailand through subtropical Laos to the Yangtze River delta's flat, water-logged terrain.