Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery: the Yangtze delta and Hangzhou Bay during departure, then the Alps' northern foothills and Danube valley during the long cruise phase over central Europe. The landing view on the left is excellent, but the extended right-side views during climb and cruise provide more total scenic value.
Flown SHA to FRA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Shanghai to Frankfurt is 5,485 miles (8,827 km), a flight of about 11 hours 30 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Asia and Europe. Notable visible features include: the Tian Shan mountains (southern view during early westbound flight), the Caspian Sea region, the Caucasus Mountains, the Black Sea, the Carpathian Mountains, and the Alps' northern foothills. The Danube River valley becomes visible during descent into central Europe. Right-side seats see more of the southern mountain ranges and valleys; left-side seats see more of the northern European plains and river systems.
Great circle distance and headings ›
.jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from SHA
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Yangtze River delta and Hangzhou Bay as the aircraft climbs westward. The river's distinctive braided channels and the bay's coastline are clearly visible during the initial climb-out phase.
Landing at FRA
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the Rhine River valley and Main River as the aircraft descends toward Frankfurt. The river's distinctive meanders and the surrounding forested hills of the Taunus and Spessart ranges frame the approach.
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 Hongqiao International (SHA) to Frankfurt Main (FRA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Shanghai to Frankfurt. Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery: the Yangtze delta and Hangzhou Bay during departure, then the Alps' northern foothills and Danube valley during the long cruise phase over central Europe. The landing view on the left is excellent, but the extended right-side views during climb and cruise provide more total scenic value.
What can I see during takeoff from Hongqiao International in Shanghai?
During takeoff from Hongqiao International (SHA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Yangtze River delta and Hangzhou Bay as the aircraft climbs westward. The river's distinctive braided channels and the bay's coastline are clearly visible during the initial climb-out phase. Notable sights include: Yangtze River delta with multiple channels, Hangzhou Bay coastline, Shanghai urban sprawl extending south, East China Sea.
What can I see when landing at Frankfurt Main in Frankfurt?
When landing at Frankfurt Main (FRA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Rhine River valley and Main River as the aircraft descends toward Frankfurt. The river's distinctive meanders and the surrounding forested hills of the Taunus and Spessart ranges frame the approach. Notable sights include: Rhine River with visible meanders, Main River confluence, Taunus Mountains (forested hills to the north), Frankfurt city center along the Main.
How long is the flight from Shanghai to Frankfurt?
The flight from Hongqiao International (SHA) to Frankfurt Main (FRA) takes about 11 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,485 miles (8,827 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Shanghai to Frankfurt flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Asia and Europe. Notable visible features include: the Tian Shan mountains (southern view during early westbound flight), the Caspian Sea region, the Caucasus Mountains, the Black Sea, the Carpathian Mountains, and the Alps' northern foothills. The Danube River valley becomes visible during descent into central Europe. Right-side seats see more of the southern mountain ranges and valleys; left-side seats see more of the northern European plains and river systems.