Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

Shanghai City remains connected to global destinations via Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). The air hub has two major terminals, T1 and T2, managing both domestic and international crowds. The Shanghai airport serves as the base for the eastern parts of China and the major Shanghai Airlines. It also features the fast Maglev train to the city, allowing convenient commuting. International travellers are usually required to arrive at least 3 hours before departure so that the check-in processes and security procedures can be conducted without haste.

  • The airport is located approximately 45 km away from the city centre.
  • It has 24/7 Wi-Fi access with additional services like baggage storage and baby care facilities.
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Shanghai Airport Guide (PVG)

Terminal Information

Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) has two main terminals, Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2). The air hub receives several airlines, both domestic and international. Both airport terminals are connected via an automated people mover (APM). While Terminal 2 handles domestic flights, Terminal 1 is dedicated to managing international flights.

Both the terminals have access to check-in counters, a food court and duty-free stores. Further, there is an underground corridor connecting the two terminals for easy airside transits. Some of the major amenities at the airport include free Wi-Fi access, parking lot, info desks, currency exchange counters and charging stations.

Airport facilities

The following are the facilities that passengers can enjoy at the Shanghai Pudong International Airport during layover and the time before boarding.

Free Wi-Fi access
ATMs and currency exchange counters
Food court and cafes
Premium lounge
Separate baggage storage sections
Free trolley for luggage
First aid and medical clinics
Drinking water station
Business centre for corporate travellers
Shuttle services/cab booking counter

Things to Do at Shanghai International Airport

Travelling from the Shanghai International Airport is a hassle-free experience with spacious and well-equipped terminals. Here are some of the highlighted features of the airport.

  • Browse through duty-free stores: The Shanghai Airport houses one of Asia's largest duty-free shopping zones. From stores for travel essentials to cosmetics, accessories, and electronics, travellers can spend their time picking up necessities or souvenirs for the trip.
  • Relax at the airport lounge: Passengers can unwind in the transit lounge, which offers a dedicated seating area, Wi-Fi access, shower facilities, and buffet meals.
  • Indulge in regional delicacies: There is a food court at the terminal with snack stores, cafes and restaurants. Travellers can indulge in regional Chinese delicacies or try out multi-cuisine options during layovers or before boarding.
  • Use free Wi-Fi for internet access: There is free Wi-Fi access for smooth internet connectivity to browse on devices. Travellers can engage in meetings or conduct official work with a reliable internet connection.
  • Rest at the transit hotel for longer layovers: Travellers can spend time at the transit hotel for long layovers. This gives them scope to take a shower, rest up and carry on for international layovers.

Visa and Immigration

A Chinese Tourist (L) Visa is required to explore Shanghai, which needs to be issued beforehand. On the other hand, business travellers require the M Visa. There are several other visa categories depending on the purpose of the visit. As a visa on arrival is not available, applications for a travel visa and permit should be made at the Chinese embassy/consulate.

To apply for a Chinese visa, travellers should primarily secure a valid passport, and additional documents like proof of funds, insurance and itinerary details. Hotel booking details, proof of accommodation, medical test report and Police clearance records are also needed to fly to Shanghai on a trip.

Hotels near Shanghai Airport

The following are the hotels near Shanghai Airport providing convenient accommodation to the guests.

  • Home Inn Shanghai Pudong Airport
  • Ramada Pudong Airport Shanghai
  • Holiday Inn Shanghai Pudong Airport, an IHG Hotel
  • Shanghai Pudong Airport Hotel
  • Holiday Inn Express Shanghai PVG Zhuqiao by IHG
  • Joyful Star Hotel Pudong Airport Chenyang
  • Ramada by Wyndham Shanghai Pudong

FAQs about Shanghai Airport

Q. How far is Shanghai Airport from the Shanghai city centre?

A: The Shanghai Pudong Airport is an international hub and is located approximately 45 km east. Situated in the Pudong region, the airport handles mainly the arrival and departure of international airlines.

Q. Does Shanghai Airport operate commercial flights?

A: Yes, Shanghai Pudong Airport offers commercial flights for both domestic and international operations. It handles extensive flights throughout the day, and for the latest update on schedules, visitors can refer to the official website.

Q. What public transport options are available to reach Shanghai Airport?

A: Travellers can access the Shanghai Airport via budget-friendly commutation means like Metro (Line 2/10), the Maglev (PVG only), and Airport Shuttle Buses. Moreover, taxis and even ride-sharing (DiDi) cabs are also available for swift movement.

Q. Are there any international flights from Shanghai Airport?

A: The Shanghai Pudong Airport offers international airlines for passengers to travel to Europe, America, Asia and beyond. Both connecting and direct flight options are available between Shanghai and major global destinations.

Q. Is Shanghai Airport wheelchair accessible?

A: Yes, Shanghai Airport provides access to essential medical aids and facilities like wheelchair assistance. Moreover, there are electric cars, and priority lanes for check-in, boarding and security, making it easier for passengers with mobility issues.

Q. What are the operating hours of the Shanghai Airport terminal?

A: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) operates 24/7. Terminals 1 and 2 remain open throughout the day, although there may be restrictions for certain activities at late hours.

Q. Does the Shanghai Airport have food courts or restaurants inside the terminal?

A: Shanghai airport has extensive food options with waiting joints, a food court and a cafeteria. Many local Chinese restaurants offer regional delicacies as well as multi-cuisine delicacies.

Q. Are prepaid taxis or app-based cab services available directly from the Shanghai Pudong Airport?

A: Yes, travellers can find both metered taxis and app-based cabs from the Shanghai airport terminal, like DiDi, to commute hassle-free. Visitors can pre-book or schedule on-demand rides.

Q. Is Wi-Fi available at the Shanghai Airport for passengers?

A: Yes, Wi-Fi access is provided to passengers in the Shanghai Airport. The smooth internet connectivity allows guests to conduct work or virtual meetings while waiting for the boarding process to begin.

Q. Does the Shanghai Airport have baby care rooms or feeding areas for infants?

A: Yes, Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) has dedicated "Mother-and-baby Rooms". The space provides access to essential facilities like a feeding chair, sink, changing tables and dispensers.