While takeoff offers the Yangtze estuary, the landing approach into Chiang Mai provides more sustained and dramatic scenery: the Doi Luang range, Ping River valley, and transition from mountains to city are visually superior and occupy more of the descent phase.
Flown PVG to CNX? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Shanghai to Chiang Mai is 1,662 miles (2,674 km), a flight of about 3 hours 50 minutes.
Laos border region with Mekong River valley, transition from coastal plains to mountainous terrain, scattered peaks of the Annamite Range, agricultural valleys of northern Thailand
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from PVG
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Yangtze River estuary and Hangzhou Bay as the aircraft climbs southwest from Pudong. The river's massive delta system and tidal mudflats are distinctive from altitude and visible during the initial climb phase.
Landing at CNX
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the Doi Luang mountain range and the Ping River valley as the aircraft descends into Chiang Mai from the northeast. These dramatic forested mountains and the river's serpentine path through the valley are the most visually distinctive features during final approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Shanghai to Chiang Mai. While takeoff offers the Yangtze estuary, the landing approach into Chiang Mai provides more sustained and dramatic scenery: the Doi Luang range, Ping River valley, and transition from mountains to city are visually superior and occupy more of the descent phase.
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. Right-side seats offer views of the Yangtze River estuary and Hangzhou Bay as the aircraft climbs southwest from Pudong. The river's massive delta system and tidal mudflats are distinctive from altitude and visible during the initial climb phase. Notable sights include: Yangtze River estuary, Hangzhou Bay, Shanghai urban sprawl extending south, East China Sea coastline.
What can I see when landing at Chiang Mai International Airport in Chiang Mai?
When landing at Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Doi Luang mountain range and the Ping River valley as the aircraft descends into Chiang Mai from the northeast. These dramatic forested mountains and the river's serpentine path through the valley are the most visually distinctive features during final approach. Notable sights include: Doi Luang mountain range, Ping River valley, Chiang Mai city grid, forested hills surrounding the valley.
How long is the flight from Shanghai to Chiang Mai?
The flight from Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) takes about 3 hours 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,662 miles (2,674 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Shanghai to Chiang Mai flight path pass over?
Laos border region with Mekong River valley, transition from coastal plains to mountainous terrain, scattered peaks of the Annamite Range, agricultural valleys of northern Thailand