About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Incheon International (ICN) to Hongqiao International (SHA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Seoul to Shanghai. Right-side seats win overall because the takeoff view of the Yellow Sea and Korean coastline is more dramatic and geographically distinctive than landing views. While left seats offer good landing scenery, the departure experience is superior on the right.
What can I see during takeoff from Incheon International in Seoul?
During takeoff from Incheon International (ICN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Yellow Sea and Korean peninsula geography as you climb southwest. Incheon typically departs runways 03L/03R or 15L/15R; southwest departures (15L/15R) give the best water and coastal views on the right side during initial climb. Notable sights include: Yellow Sea (immediate right, sparkling water surface), Incheon's reclaimed land islands and port facilities (below and right), Korean peninsula coastline extending south, Gyeonggi Bay inlets.
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 offer superior views during approach to Hongqiao. The airport typically uses runways 03/21; approaches from the north (runway 03) descend over Shanghai's urban core and the Huangpu River. Left seats see the river's distinctive curves and the Pudong skyline directly. Notable sights include: Huangpu River with its characteristic bends (left and center), Pudong financial district skyline including Oriental Pearl Tower (left-center, recognizable as tall structure), Puxi district (right side, lower density), East China Sea horizon (far distance).
How long is the flight from Seoul to Shanghai?
The flight from Incheon International (ICN) to Hongqiao International (SHA) takes Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Seoul to Shanghai flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Yellow Sea southwest of the Korean peninsula, passing over open water for roughly 90 minutes. No major islands or landmarks are visible in the midpoint—the sea remains the dominant feature. As you approach Shanghai, the Chinese coastline becomes visible, followed by the Yangtze River delta's complex network of waterways, agricultural fields, and industrial zones. The transition from open water to densely developed coastal plain is gradual but noticeable around 30 minutes before landing.