Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chiang Mai to Shanghai. While landing views on the left are dramatic, the takeoff climb on the right offers more consistent scenic value with the Doi Luang range and river valley clearly visible. The northeastward flight path favors right-side views throughout much of the journey across northern Thailand and Laos.

During takeoff from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Doi Luang mountain range and the Ping River valley as the aircraft climbs northeastward from Chiang Mai. The terrain rises dramatically to the right, providing clear sightlines of the forested hills surrounding the city. Notable sights include: Doi Luang (northernmost peak visible from CNX), Ping River valley, Chiang Mai city grid, forested hills of northern Thailand.

When landing at Shanghai Pudong International (PVG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Yangtze River estuary, Hangzhou Bay, and the Shanghai urban sprawl during descent into Pudong. The river's massive delta and the city's geometric grid are striking from altitude, especially on the approach from the southwest. Notable sights include: Yangtze River estuary, Hangzhou Bay, Shanghai Pudong skyline, East China Sea coastline.

The flight from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) takes 2h 15m.

Mekong River valley (visible during cruise over Laos), karst limestone formations near the Thailand-Laos border, scattered peaks of the Annamite Range, the broad floodplains of central Laos