PVG Airport Insights & Guide
Key PVG Airport Topics:- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know PVG Airport
Explore Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG), your entry to China's vibrant heart and home to the world's highest airport control tower. Our concise guide simplifies your journey through one of Asia's busiest hubs, offering essential information from flight updates to dining options. Whether it's your first visit or you're a frequent flyer, we ensure a seamless experience at PVG.
Discover everything you need for a hassle-free airport visit, including terminal maps and shopping directories. Make your travel smoother with our guide. For more airport insights, check out our Comprehensive Airport Guide.
iFly Tip: Make your next trip easier by choosing the right check-in option.
Navigating PVG's Terminals
PVG Airport has two main terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 has 28 gates and is used by domestic airlines such as China Eastern Airlines and Spring Airlines. Terminal 2 has 90 gates and is used by international airlines such as Air France, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.
Passengers can easily navigate between the two terminals via the shuttle bus service, which runs every 10-15 minutes and takes approximately 10 minutes to travel between the terminals.
Inside each terminal, passengers can find a variety of food and beverage options, duty-free shops, and other services such as currency exchange and ATMs. Major airlines typically have their own dedicated check-in counters and departure gates, which are clearly marked throughout the terminals.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
The airport has two main terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The terminals are connected by a shuttle bus that runs every 10 minutes, 24 hours a day. The shuttle bus ride takes approximately 5-10 minutes depending on traffic.
If you prefer to walk, there is a pedestrian walkway that connects the two terminals. The walkway is located on the second floor of both terminals and takes approximately 15-20 minutes to walk between the two terminals.
Overall, getting between the terminals at Shanghai Pudong Airport is easy and convenient with the shuttle bus and pedestrian walkway options available.
Tips from PVG Frequent Flyers
To help make your experience at Shanghai Pudong International Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from PVG-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"When navigating PVG, it's essential to know that Terminal 1 is mainly for domestic flights, while Terminal 2 handles international routes. If you’re in a hurry, use the shuttle bus instead of the walkway between terminals; it saves a good chunk of time." — Ming L., Shanghai, December 2023
"I always check the terminal maps online before arriving. It helps to know where the check-in counters and security lines are, especially during peak hours. The signage is good, but a little prep goes a long way." — Wei Z., Pudong, February 2024
Getting To/From the City
"The Maglev train is the fastest way to get to the city center. It's a bit pricier than the metro, but if you're short on time, it's worth every penny. Plus, it's a cool experience!" — Li H., Nanhui, March 2024
"For a budget-friendly option, take Metro Line 2. It's convenient and connects directly to the city center. Just avoid rush hour if you can, as it gets quite crowded." — Jian P., Chuansha, April 2024
Parking
"If you're picking someone up, use the cell phone waiting area. It's free, and you can avoid the hassle of circling around the airport. Just wait for your passenger to call when they're ready." — Chen Y., Shanghai, May 2024
"For long-term parking, consider off-airport lots. They usually offer shuttle services to the terminals and are more economical than the on-site options." — Mei T., Jinqiao, June 2024
Inside the Airport
"If you have a layover, check out the lounges even if you're not flying business class. Some offer access for a fee, and it's a nice way to relax away from the crowds." — Zhang F., Lingang, July 2024
"Don't miss out on trying the local food options like Shanghai Min. It's a great way to enjoy authentic Shanghainese cuisine without leaving the airport." — Hua N., Zhoupu, August 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Always check your flight status online or via your airline's app before heading to the airport. It helps to avoid surprises like gate changes or delays." — Ling J., Fengxian, September 2024
"Arrive early, especially if you're flying internationally. Security checks can take time, and it's better to have some extra minutes to spare for unforeseen delays." — Xiao Q., Kangqiao, October 2024
iFly Tip: Make sure your baggage is processed without delays by checking baggage cutoff times.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At Shanghai Pudong Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at designated areas outside each terminal. It is important to note that curbside parking is strictly prohibited and vehicles left unattended will be towed. Therefore, it is recommended to use the short-term parking facilities if you need to park your vehicle for an extended period of time.
If you are picking up passengers, you can use the cell-phone waiting areas located near each terminal. These areas are free of charge and allow you to wait for your passengers until they are ready to be picked up. Once your passengers have collected their luggage and are ready to be picked up, they can call or text you to let you know their location, and you can then proceed to the designated pick-up area outside the terminal.
Parking Facilities & Options
Shanghai Airport offers a variety of parking options for travelers. There are several parking lots and garages located throughout the airport, including short-term and long-term options. The short-term parking lot is located in front of the terminal building, while the long-term parking lot is located a short distance away and provides shuttle service to the terminal.
If you're waiting to pick up a passenger, the airport also offers cell phone waiting areas. These areas are free to use and allow you to wait in your car until your passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up.
For travelers with disabilities, there are designated handicapped parking spaces located in each parking lot and garage. These spaces are located close to the terminal building and are easily accessible.
If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available. These parking lots are located a short distance away from the airport and provide shuttle service to and from the terminal. Off-airport parking can be a great way to save money on parking fees.
Transportation Options
PVG Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options to help travelers get to their destination:
- Car Rentals: PVG Airport provides several car rental services, including major providers such as Hertz, Avis, and Budget. These services are located in the Arrivals Hall of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Renting a car allows visitors to explore Shanghai and its surroundings at their own pace. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal buildings at designated drop-off areas. The fare to the city center typically ranges from 150-200 CNY, depending on traffic and distance. It’s recommended to have the address of your destination written in Chinese to assist the driver.
- Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services such as Didi Chuxing and Uber are available at PVG Airport. These services have designated pickup areas outside the terminal buildings and offer a cost-effective way to reach your destination. Be aware that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and the amount of luggage allowed.
- Airport Shuttles: Several shuttle services operate between PVG Airport and various hotels and popular destinations in Shanghai. Fares typically start at around 30 CNY. Shuttle pickup areas are located outside the terminal buildings, and it is recommended to book your shuttle in advance to ensure availability.
- Public Transportation: PVG Airport is well-connected to Shanghai's metro system. Line 2 of the metro offers a direct connection to the city center, with fares starting at just 3 CNY. This is a budget-friendly option for travelers. Additionally, there are several bus routes that serve the airport, providing connections to various parts of the city.
iFly Tip: Keep your valuables safe with tips from our carry-on packing advice.
Airport Hotels
Looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay near the airport? Our comprehensive guide to the airport Hotels is here to help. From luxury hotels with top-notch amenities to budget-friendly options that don't compromise on comfort, we have something for everyone. Many of our selected hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the terminal, free WiFi, on-site dining, and are located near popular attractions. Discover the best airport hotels that offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and accessibility to make your stay as enjoyable as possible.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Shanghai Airport offers a wide range of dining and shopping options for travelers to enjoy during their layovers or before their flights. For those looking for a quick bite, there are several fast food chains such as McDonald's, KFC, and Burger King located throughout the airport. If you have a bit more time, there are also sit-down restaurants serving Chinese and international cuisine. Some recommended options include Ajisen Ramen, which serves delicious Japanese-style noodles, and Shanghai Min, which offers traditional Shanghainese dishes.
For those looking to do some shopping, PVG has plenty of options. There are luxury brand stores such as Gucci and Burberry, as well as more affordable options like Uniqlo and Muji. If you're looking for souvenirs or gifts, there are also several shops selling traditional Chinese items such as tea sets, silk scarves, and calligraphy brushes. One unique store to check out is the Shanghai Tang Culture Salon, which sells high-end Chinese clothing and accessories.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at PVG Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: Shanghai Pudong International Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminals, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
- Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the Lost and Found Center is located in the Terminal 2 Arrivals Hall and is open 24 hours a day for your convenience.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Shanghai Pudong Airport features dedicated children's areas equipped with toys, games, and other entertainment options.
- Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, special boarding arrangements, and other services for passengers with disabilities or special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
- ATM: Several banks and ATMs are available throughout the terminals, providing easy access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
- Medical Center: In case of a medical emergency, a medical center is located in the Terminal 2 Departures Hall. The center is staffed by trained medical professionals and is equipped to handle a range of medical issues.
- Airport Lounges: Shanghai Pudong International Airport features several lounges, including the China Eastern Plaza Premium Lounge, the Air China First and Business Class Lounge, and the Cathay Pacific Lounge. These lounges offer amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, comfortable seating areas, workstations, and shower facilities for those needing to freshen up before a long journey. Access may be available through membership programs or for a fee.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it's important to stay updated on the status of your flight departure, especially if there are any delays, cancelations, or gate changes. Luckily, there are several ways to get flight status information at Metropolitan Oakland Airport.
One of the easiest ways to check your flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply locate your flight on the display and check the status.
Another convenient way to stay informed is by using your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to check flight status, receive alerts about delays or cancelations, and even change your seat or upgrade your ticket. You can also sign up for text, email, or push notifications to receive updates directly to your phone.
Lastly, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Metropolitan Oakland Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) is located in Shanghai, China.
- Terminals: The airport features two main terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, connected by a shuttle bus service. Terminal 1 primarily handles domestic flights, while Terminal 2 serves international flights.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines operating from PVG include China Eastern Airlines, Shanghai Airlines, and Air China. For a comprehensive list of airlines, visit the PVG Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Shanghai Pudong International Airport handles approximately 60,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees around 500 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from PVG are Hong Kong, Tokyo, Seoul, Bangkok, and Taipei.
- Hub Status: Shanghai Pudong International Airport is a major hub for China Eastern Airlines, Shanghai Airlines, and Juneyao Airlines, facilitating connections across Asia and beyond.
Airport History
Shanghai Pudong Airport is one of the two international airports in Shanghai, China. It was opened on October 1, 1999, and has since become one of the busiest airports in the world. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1999: Shanghai Airport officially opens to the public.
- 2005: The airport's second runway is completed, allowing for increased capacity and more flights.
- 2008: PVG becomes the main hub for China Eastern Airlines.
- 2010: The airport's Terminal 2 is opened, increasing the airport's capacity to 60 million passengers per year.
- 2019: PVG Airport handles over 76 million passengers, making it the world's third-busiest airport by passenger traffic.
Today, the airport continues to be a major hub for air travel in Asia, with flights to destinations all over the world.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Shanghai Pudong International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: PVG
- Airport Website
- Phone: +86 21 96990
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Shanghai Pudong International Airport, S1 Yingbin Expy, Pudong Xinqu, Shanghai, China, 201202
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
About this Page: Please note that while we strive to keep the content on this page current and accurate, we cannot guarantee it due to the ever-changing nature of airports and airlines; for more details about our data and practices, refer to our Trust & Transparency statement. To report any data issues, use our feedback form.
Shanghai Pudong Airport Q&A
Find more help here for your journey through the airport