Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery on both segments—Shanghai's urban landscape and river systems during takeoff, plus the Taiwan Strait crossing and northern Taiwan's volcanic terrain during descent. The left side offers good landing views but less compelling takeoff scenery.
Flown SHA to TPE? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Shanghai to Taipei is 423 miles (681 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Taiwan Strait (open water crossing with no major landmarks), occasional fishing vessels and cargo ships, subtle atmospheric haze over the strait, distant outline of Taiwan's central mountain range appearing on the horizon during the crossing
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from SHA
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Huangpu River winding through central Shanghai and the Pudong skyline during initial climb. The Yangtze River estuary and East China Sea coastline also become visible as altitude increases.
Landing at TPE
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of Taiwan's northern coast and the Taipei Basin during descent. The Yangmingshan volcanic plateau and Keelung River valley become prominent as you approach Taoyuan International Airport from the northwest.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Hongqiao International (SHA) to Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Shanghai to Taipei. Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery on both segments—Shanghai's urban landscape and river systems during takeoff, plus the Taiwan Strait crossing and northern Taiwan's volcanic terrain during descent. The left side offers good landing views but less compelling takeoff scenery.
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 Huangpu River winding through central Shanghai and the Pudong skyline during initial climb. The Yangtze River estuary and East China Sea coastline also become visible as altitude increases. Notable sights include: Huangpu River, Pudong financial district, Yangtze River estuary, East China Sea.
What can I see when landing at Chiang Kai Shek International in Taipei?
When landing at Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of Taiwan's northern coast and the Taipei Basin during descent. The Yangmingshan volcanic plateau and Keelung River valley become prominent as you approach Taoyuan International Airport from the northwest. Notable sights include: Taiwan Strait, Yangmingshan volcanic plateau, Keelung River valley, northern Taiwan coast.
How long is the flight from Shanghai to Taipei?
The flight from Hongqiao International (SHA) to Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 423 miles (681 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Shanghai to Taipei flight path pass over?
Taiwan Strait (open water crossing with no major landmarks), occasional fishing vessels and cargo ships, subtle atmospheric haze over the strait, distant outline of Taiwan's central mountain range appearing on the horizon during the crossing