While takeoff favors the right side, the landing approach provides more dramatic and sustained scenic value. Left-side seats capture the Yangtze estuary and Hangzhou Bay during descent, which are geographically more impressive than the Beijing foothills. The landing views outweigh the takeoff advantage.
Flown PEK to PVG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Beijing to Shanghai is 683 miles (1,099 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the North China Plain, passing east of Jinan and over Anhui Province. Notable features include the Yellow River (Huang He) crossing in central Anhui, the Huai River valley, and the transition from the flat plain to the lower-lying Yangtze River basin. Lake Nansi (Nansihu) in Shandong Province may be visible on clear days from the northern portion of the route. The landscape gradually transitions from agricultural plains to more water-logged terrain as the aircraft approaches the Yangtze delta region.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from PEK
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Ming Tombs and Yanqing District mountains as the aircraft climbs northwest from Beijing Capital. The terrain rises progressively westward, creating a dynamic landscape of foothills and valleys that's visually engaging during the initial climb phase.
Landing at PVG
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Shanghai, particularly of the Yangtze River estuary, Hangzhou Bay, and the Huangpu River as it winds through Pudong. The approach path from the northwest gives left-side passengers a clear view of Shanghai's urban sprawl and the distinctive water features that define the region.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Capital (PEK) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Beijing to Shanghai. While takeoff favors the right side, the landing approach provides more dramatic and sustained scenic value. Left-side seats capture the Yangtze estuary and Hangzhou Bay during descent, which are geographically more impressive than the Beijing foothills. The landing views outweigh the takeoff advantage.
What can I see during takeoff from Capital in Beijing?
During takeoff from Capital (PEK), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Ming Tombs and Yanqing District mountains as the aircraft climbs northwest from Beijing Capital. The terrain rises progressively westward, creating a dynamic landscape of foothills and valleys that's visually engaging during the initial climb phase. Notable sights include: Ming Tombs (northwest of PEK), Yanqing District mountains, Guanting Reservoir, Western Hills ridge.
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 excellent views during descent into Shanghai, particularly of the Yangtze River estuary, Hangzhou Bay, and the Huangpu River as it winds through Pudong. The approach path from the northwest gives left-side passengers a clear view of Shanghai's urban sprawl and the distinctive water features that define the region. Notable sights include: Yangtze River estuary, Hangzhou Bay, Huangpu River, Pudong skyline and Lujiazui financial district.
How long is the flight from Beijing to Shanghai?
The flight from Capital (PEK) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 683 miles (1,099 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Beijing to Shanghai flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North China Plain, passing east of Jinan and over Anhui Province. Notable features include the Yellow River (Huang He) crossing in central Anhui, the Huai River valley, and the transition from the flat plain to the lower-lying Yangtze River basin. Lake Nansi (Nansihu) in Shandong Province may be visible on clear days from the northern portion of the route. The landscape gradually transitions from agricultural plains to more water-logged terrain as the aircraft approaches the Yangtze delta region.