How early should I arrive at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)? When does check-in close?

Domestic check-in at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport usually closes 45 minutes before departure and boarding gates close 15-20 minutes before. Arrive 2 hours early for domestic and 3 hours for international flights; add 30 minutes during holidays.

How do I get to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport? Is there a metro or airport bus?

You can reach Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport by airport shuttle bus, taxi/ride-hailing, or urban rail transit. See the transport guide section on this page for routes, fares and schedules, or search "Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport" in your navigation app for live directions.

Which city is Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport in? What is its IATA code?

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport serves Shanghai, with IATA code SHA and ICAO code ZSSS.

How many terminals and runways does Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport have?

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport currently has 2 terminal(s) and 2 runway(s), serving around 48.0 million passenger-trips per year.

Does Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport offer unaccompanied minor service? How to apply?

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport provides unaccompanied minor service for children aged 5-12, including dedicated check-in counter, full-time escort and handover confirmation. Parents must apply in advance through the airline, fill out the Unaccompanied Minor Form, and arrive at the dedicated counter on departure day with valid ID.

What to do with prohibited items at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport? Is there storage or mailing?

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport has prohibited items storage lockers and express mailing service. Items like lighters or excess liquids can be stored at security (usually free for 7 days) or mailed to your destination. Lithium batteries must be carried on, not checked.

What lounges are available at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport? How to access?

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport offers airline-operated lounges (e.g. Air China First/Business), alliance lounges (e.g. Star Alliance) and third-party paid lounges (Priority Pass/DragonPass). Access via first/business class tickets, airline elite status, or paid lounge entry.

Does Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport provide wheelchair service? How to assist special passengers?

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport offers wheelchair service, guide for visually impaired, elderly assistance and pregnant passenger care. Wheelchair users should book 48 hours in advance with the airline. Upon arrival, contact the information desk or call the airport hotline for assistance.

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SHA

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport

China · 上海市 · SHA

SHAZSSS✓ 144h transit visa-free

Runways

Terminals

4800

Annual pax

Elevation

Airport Overview

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (IATA: SHA) is located in Shanghai, China and serves as a major trunk airport in China. It currently operates 2 terminal(s) and 2 runway(s) with approximately 4800 million annual passengers, at an elevation of about 3m. Travelers can reach the city via options such as Metro Line 2, Metro Line 10, Hongqiao Railway Station, and more. The airport supports transit visa-free entry for eligible international transfer passengers, making it a convenient transfer point. Our site provides one-stop references for check-in, transport, lounges, dining, shopping and refund/change policies.

Airport Guide

Must read

Step-by-step flight guide and signature services at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport.

✈️Step-by-step flying guide

Confirm Terminal & Flight

This airport has 2 terminals. Confirm your terminal before travel; a free shuttle usually connects them.

Arrive & Check in

Arrive 2h before domestic and 3h before international flights. Check in and select seats via the airline app; drop bags on arrival.

Security & Wait

Have ID/passport and boarding pass ready; liquids under 100ml per bottle. Gates close 15-20 min before departure.

Board & Arrive

Board when called; follow signs to baggage claim on arrival. Free trolleys are available for heavy luggage.

⭐Signature services

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Airport Transport

Airport buses, taxis and ride-hailing connect to Shanghai; some airports have metro/rail links—prefer public transport to avoid traffic.

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Baggage Services

Free trolleys, baggage storage and wrapping are available—store bags for a relaxed layover.

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Family & Accessibility

Nursing rooms and accessible restrooms available; wheelchairs and special assistance can be pre-booked.

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Visa-free Transit

This airport offers 144h transit visa-free. Eligible transfer passengers may enter briefly, subject to immigration rules.

💡 Good to know

•Double-check the airport (Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport) and terminal before you travel.
•Allow an extra 30 minutes during holidays and morning peaks.