Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)

Common Complaints

• Security Wait Times and Staff Attitude: While often efficient, some travelers have experienced slow-moving security lines and a lack of open lanes, especially during peak times and holidays. There are also occasional mentions of staff having a "general" or "unhelpful" attitude.
• Bus Gate Usage (Lack of Jetways): A recurring complaint is the airport's frequent use of bus gates for both arrivals and departures, particularly for larger aircraft. This can lead to delays and inconvenience, especially in inclement weather.
• Crowdedness and Traffic: Due to high passenger volumes, particularly during holidays and peak seasons, the airport can become very crowded, and surrounding road traffic can be severe. July 2025 saw record-breaking passenger traffic.
• Limited 24-hour Facilities and Heating: While good for layovers, some reviews from previous years note that many shops and restaurants close by 10:00 PM. There are also mentions of lack of heating overnight in some areas, making it chilly.

Overall, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport is a highly functional and well-connected airport, particularly for domestic travel, and excels in cleanliness and modern infrastructure. Travelers seeking a smooth and convenient experience, especially with its excellent public transport links, will generally find SHA to be a good choice, though it's advisable to factor in potential delays at security and the frequent use of bus gates, especially during busy periods.