While takeoff favors the right for Shanghai's urban scenery, the landing approach on the left provides superior views of the Alps and the dramatic transition from mountains to the Lombardy plain—the most visually distinctive segment of this long-haul route. Left-side seats capture the geographic climax of the journey.
Flown PVG to MXP? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Shanghai to Milano is 5,682 miles (9,144 km), a flight of about 11 hours 30 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Asia, passing over the Tian Shan mountains (visible from both sides during daylight hours), the Taklamakan Desert (vast, featureless expanse), the Pamir Mountains, Hindu Kush range, and eventually the Caspian Sea region. Over the Middle East, the Zagros Mountains and Persian Gulf are visible. The route then crosses the Caucasus Mountains before entering European airspace. Most of this midpoint segment occurs during darkness on typical westbound schedules, limiting scenic value.
Great circle distance and headings ›
.jpg?width=600)
.jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from PVG
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Huangpu River's distinctive bend through central Shanghai and the Pudong skyline as the aircraft climbs northwest. The river's serpentine path and the contrast between the financial district and surrounding urban sprawl are clearly visible during the initial climb.
Landing at MXP
LEFTLeft-side seats offer the best views during descent into Malpensa. The Alps become increasingly prominent on the left as the aircraft approaches from the east, and you'll see the Ticino River valley and the flat Lombardy plain spreading below—key geographic features marking the approach to Milan.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) to Malpensa (MXP)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Shanghai to Milano. While takeoff favors the right for Shanghai's urban scenery, the landing approach on the left provides superior views of the Alps and the dramatic transition from mountains to the Lombardy plain—the most visually distinctive segment of this long-haul route. Left-side seats capture the geographic climax of the journey.
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 capture the Huangpu River's distinctive bend through central Shanghai and the Pudong skyline as the aircraft climbs northwest. The river's serpentine path and the contrast between the financial district and surrounding urban sprawl are clearly visible during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Huangpu River (central Shanghai bend), Pudong financial district skyline, Yangtze River estuary to the north, East China Sea coastline.
What can I see when landing at Malpensa in Milano?
When landing at Malpensa (MXP), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer the best views during descent into Malpensa. The Alps become increasingly prominent on the left as the aircraft approaches from the east, and you'll see the Ticino River valley and the flat Lombardy plain spreading below—key geographic features marking the approach to Milan. Notable sights include: Alps (Monte Rosa and surrounding peaks on the horizon), Ticino River valley, Lombardy plain, Lake Maggiore (if visible during descent corridor).
How long is the flight from Shanghai to Milano?
The flight from Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) to Malpensa (MXP) takes about 11 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,682 miles (9,144 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Shanghai to Milano flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Asia, passing over the Tian Shan mountains (visible from both sides during daylight hours), the Taklamakan Desert (vast, featureless expanse), the Pamir Mountains, Hindu Kush range, and eventually the Caspian Sea region. Over the Middle East, the Zagros Mountains and Persian Gulf are visible. The route then crosses the Caucasus Mountains before entering European airspace. Most of this midpoint segment occurs during darkness on typical westbound schedules, limiting scenic value.