While takeoff favors the right side for Shanghai's skyline, the long cruise phase over Central Asia's mountain ranges and the dramatic Pyramids/Nile approach into Cairo give the left side more sustained scenic value across the full flight.
Flown PVG to CAI? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Shanghai to Cairo is 5,201 miles (8,370 km), a flight of about 10 hours 50 minutes.
Tian Shan and Pamir mountain ranges over Kyrgyzstan/Tajikistan, the Caspian Sea coastline, and the Zagros Mountains of western Iran along the westbound routing before descending into the Nile Valley
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from PVG
RIGHTDeparting PVG southbound on the parallel runways, the climb-out banks slightly over Hangzhou Bay with Shanghai's Pudong skyline and the Yangtze estuary visible on the right side, while the left shows mostly flat agricultural delta with little contrast.
Landing at CAI
LEFTOn approach into Cairo from the northeast, the final turn toward runway 23 typically brings the Nile River, its green floodplain, and the Giza plateau with the Pyramids into view on the left side of the aircraft, contrasting sharply with the surrounding desert.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) to Cairo International (CAI)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Shanghai to Cairo. While takeoff favors the right side for Shanghai's skyline, the long cruise phase over Central Asia's mountain ranges and the dramatic Pyramids/Nile approach into Cairo give the left side more sustained scenic value across the full flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Shanghai Pudong International in Shanghai?
During takeoff from Shanghai Pudong International (PVG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing PVG southbound on the parallel runways, the climb-out banks slightly over Hangzhou Bay with Shanghai's Pudong skyline and the Yangtze estuary visible on the right side, while the left shows mostly flat agricultural delta with little contrast. Notable sights include: Pudong skyline towers, Yangtze River estuary mouth, Hangzhou Bay coastline, Chongming Island wetlands.
What can I see when landing at Cairo International in Cairo?
When landing at Cairo International (CAI), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach into Cairo from the northeast, the final turn toward runway 23 typically brings the Nile River, its green floodplain, and the Giza plateau with the Pyramids into view on the left side of the aircraft, contrasting sharply with the surrounding desert. Notable sights include: Nile River and floodplain, Pyramids of Giza plateau, Cairo urban sprawl, Western Desert edge.
How long is the flight from Shanghai to Cairo?
The flight from Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) to Cairo International (CAI) takes about 10 hours 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,201 miles (8,370 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Shanghai to Cairo flight path pass over?
Tian Shan and Pamir mountain ranges over Kyrgyzstan/Tajikistan, the Caspian Sea coastline, and the Zagros Mountains of western Iran along the westbound routing before descending into the Nile Valley