YVRPVG

Which side of the plane from Vancouver to Shanghai

Reverse

Which side of the plane?

Pick the window seat with the view. 13,500 routes answered — landmarks, coastlines and cities, wing by wing.

About This Route

Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Vancouver International (YVR) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG)?

Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Vancouver to Shanghai. While landing favors the right, the dramatic takeoff scenery over the North Shore Mountains and Strait of Georgia outweighs the landing views. The first 30 minutes of flight provide superior visual interest compared to the final approach, which is largely industrial estuary and mudflats.

What can I see during takeoff from Vancouver International in Vancouver?

During takeoff from Vancouver International (YVR), sit on the Left side for the best views. YVR typically departs to the west over the Strait of Georgia. Left-side seats capture the North Shore Mountains immediately after takeoff, with views extending across the strait toward Vancouver Island. Right seats face inland toward the Fraser Valley with less dramatic terrain. Notable sights include: North Shore Mountains (Grouse, Seymour peaks), Strait of Georgia, Vancouver Island (distant), Bowen Island.

What can I see when landing at Shanghai Pudong International in Shanghai?

When landing at Shanghai Pudong International (PVG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Approaching PVG from the northwest, aircraft descend over the Yangtze River estuary and Hangzhou Bay. Right-side seats offer views of the bay's distinctive mudflats, the Qiantang River delta, and the city's eastern sprawl. Left seats face the industrial areas and inland terrain with less visual interest. Notable sights include: Hangzhou Bay (mudflats and tidal patterns), Qiantang River delta, Yangtze River estuary, Shanghai urban grid.

How long is the flight from Vancouver to Shanghai?

The flight from Vancouver International (YVR) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) takes Approximately 10.5 to 11 hours.

What does the Vancouver to Shanghai flight path pass over?

The flight path crosses the North Pacific at roughly 55°N latitude. Notable features include the Aleutian Islands (visible on clear days around 6-7 hours into flight, appearing as a low chain on the horizon), the Bering Sea, and the Kamchatka Peninsula. As the aircraft approaches Asian airspace around 8-9 hours, the Sakhalin Island region becomes visible. The final 2-3 hours cross the East China Sea with occasional views of the Japanese archipelago (Honshu's northern coast) before descending into the Yangtze estuary approach.