Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (IATA: PVG, ICAO: ZSPD) is the primary international air gateway for Shanghai and a major aviation hub in Asia. It handles the majority of the city's international flights, serving as a critical link between China and the rest of the world for both passenger and cargo traffic.

Opened on October 1, 1999, the airport was constructed to relieve pressure on the older Shanghai Hongqiao Airport. Its development has been marked by significant expansions, including the addition of Terminal 2 and a third runway in preparation for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. In 2019, it further enhanced its capacity with the opening of a large satellite terminal complex, solidifying its status as a leading global airport.

Pudong Airport is located on the eastern coast of the Pudong New Area, approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) from central Shanghai. Travelers have several convenient options for reaching the city. The Shanghai Maglev Train offers the fastest connection, traveling to Longyang Road Station in about eight minutes. The Shanghai Metro Line 2 provides a direct and more economical route to key downtown areas. Additionally, an extensive network of airport buses serves various districts, and taxis are readily available outside both terminals.

As a principal hub for China Eastern Airlines and Shanghai Airlines, PVG also serves as a major international base for Air China. It facilitates a vast network of routes connecting to cities across North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. Prior to 2020, the airport consistently ranked among the busiest in the world, handling over 76 million passengers annually.

The airport features two main passenger terminals, T1 and T2, which are complemented by two satellite concourses, S1 and S2. An automated people mover system provides efficient transfers between the main terminals and the satellite facilities. Both terminals offer a comprehensive range of amenities, including extensive duty-free shopping, diverse dining options featuring local and international cuisine, currency exchange services, and airline lounges. Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the airport.

For travelers departing internationally, it is recommended to arrive 3-4 hours before the scheduled flight time to navigate check-in, security, and immigration procedures, which can be time-consuming. When connecting between flights, passengers should confirm if a terminal change is necessary and allocate sufficient time, particularly if clearing immigration is required. The Maglev is ideal for a quick city transfer, while the Metro is a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers.