Left seats offer superior views on both legs: Hakata Bay's dramatic water and islands during departure, then the Huangpu River's striking curves and Shanghai's iconic skyline during approach. The river approach is particularly distinctive and memorable.
Flown FUK to PVG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Fukuoka to Shanghai is 532 miles (856 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the East China Sea heading southwest from Fukuoka. Notable features include the Tsushima Strait region (visible during initial climb), then open water for most of the cruise. As you approach Shanghai, the Yangtze River delta's flat terrain becomes visible, with the river's multiple channels and agricultural patchwork appearing around 50 miles out. The transition from open sea to the densely developed delta is gradual but clear at altitude.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from FUK
RIGHTFUK typically departs to the north or northeast. Right-side seats capture Hakata Bay immediately after takeoff, with the city of Fukuoka spreading across the landscape. You'll see the urban grid transition to water and islands as you climb.
Landing at PVG
LEFTPVG's main runways (16L/16R and 34L/34R) mean approaches typically come from the east or west. Left-side seats on eastbound approaches capture the Huangpu River's distinctive curves as you descend toward the airport, with Pudong's skyline and the East China Sea visible. The river's serpentine path is a striking visual reference.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Fukuoka (FUK) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Fukuoka to Shanghai. Left seats offer superior views on both legs: Hakata Bay's dramatic water and islands during departure, then the Huangpu River's striking curves and Shanghai's iconic skyline during approach. The river approach is particularly distinctive and memorable.
What can I see during takeoff from Fukuoka in Fukuoka?
During takeoff from Fukuoka (FUK), sit on the Right side for the best views. FUK typically departs to the north or northeast. Right-side seats capture Hakata Bay immediately after takeoff, with the city of Fukuoka spreading across the landscape. You'll see the urban grid transition to water and islands as you climb. Notable sights include: Hakata Bay (directly below during initial climb), Fukuoka city center with its grid pattern, Shikano Island and smaller islands dotting the bay, Kyushu's northern coastline receding southward.
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. PVG's main runways (16L/16R and 34L/34R) mean approaches typically come from the east or west. Left-side seats on eastbound approaches capture the Huangpu River's distinctive curves as you descend toward the airport, with Pudong's skyline and the East China Sea visible. The river's serpentine path is a striking visual reference. Notable sights include: Huangpu River with its characteristic bends, Pudong skyline including Oriental Pearl Tower and financial district, East China Sea to the east, Yangtze River delta flatlands extending to the horizon.
How long is the flight from Fukuoka to Shanghai?
The flight from Fukuoka (FUK) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 532 miles (856 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Fukuoka to Shanghai flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the East China Sea heading southwest from Fukuoka. Notable features include the Tsushima Strait region (visible during initial climb), then open water for most of the cruise. As you approach Shanghai, the Yangtze River delta's flat terrain becomes visible, with the river's multiple channels and agricultural patchwork appearing around 50 miles out. The transition from open sea to the densely developed delta is gradual but clear at altitude.