Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

Common Complaints

• Rude and Unhelpful Staff: A dominant complaint revolves around unprofessional, rude, and incompetent staff at check-in, security, and immigration, often described as unhelpful towards foreigners.
• Long and Disorganized Security/Immigration: Travelers frequently report insufferably long and unpredictable wait times for security checks and immigration, sometimes exceeding an hour. The multi-stage security process can be rigorous, and transit procedures, including re-checking bags, are often confusing and disorganized.
• Limited Food and Shopping Options: Many reviews highlight the poor selection, high prices, and limited operating hours for food and retail outlets, especially in international terminals and during late hours, often falling below expectations for a major international airport.
• Unreliable Wi-Fi: While free Wi-Fi is available, many find it difficult to connect, slow, or heavily restricted, often requiring a passport scan to access.
• Vast Layout Leading to Long Walks: The airport's enormous size means that gates can be far apart, requiring significant walking or use of internal trams, which can be challenging for those with tight connections or mobility issues.

In summary, Shanghai Pudong International Airport often leaves travelers with a sense of dissatisfaction due to its challenging security and immigration processes, coupled with staff issues and limited airside amenities. While its efficient transport links and cleanliness are definite advantages, these aspects are frequently overshadowed by the frustrations encountered by many passengers.