Introduction to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (IATA: SHA, ICAO: ZSSS) is one of the oldest and most important airports in China, serving as a major gateway for domestic flights and select international routes. Located in the western part of Shanghai, it is approximately 13 kilometers from the city center, making it a convenient option for travelers who need quick access to downtown Shanghai.
History and Development
Originally built in 1921, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport has a rich history. The airport was rebuilt in 1950 and transitioned from military-civilian use to exclusively civilian use in 1971. A significant expansion took place in 2010 with the opening of Terminal 2 (T2) and a second runway. Further developments include the renovation of Terminal 1 (T1) and the construction of the East Transportation Center, which began at the end of 2014.
Airport Facilities
Terminal 1 (T1): The T1 terminal features 66 aircraft stands, including 13 boarding bridges, 48 remote stands, 2 special stands, and 2 cargo stands. The terminal comprises two closely connected sections, A and B, covering a total area of 82,000 square meters (with A covering 50,000 square meters and B covering 32,000 square meters). T1 has 15 waiting halls, 18 VIP lounges, and 15 baggage transfer systems. Following renovations, the terminal's area increased to 131,800 square meters, featuring 72 check-in counters and 13 boarding bridges.
Terminal 2 (T2): Opened in 2010, T2 covers an area of 362,600 square meters. It is equipped with 80 check-in counters, 47 security checkpoints, and 89 aircraft stands, 45 of which are boarding bridges. The terminal's innovative design includes mixed-use gates that can accommodate various aircraft configurations. T2 also features 35 nursing rooms, 48 accessible restrooms for disabled passengers, 16 elevators, and 4 information desks.
Runways: The airport has two parallel runways. The first runway is 3,400 meters long and 45 meters wide, while the second is 3,300 meters long and 60 meters wide, with a distance of 365 meters between them. The airport also has four parallel taxiways. The total area of the apron is approximately 486,000 square meters, with 89 aircraft stands.
Passenger Services
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport offers a variety of services and amenities, including numerous shopping and dining options, VIP lounges, and excellent transportation links. The airport is directly connected to the Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station, one of China's largest railway hubs, providing easy access to high-speed trains and the Shanghai Metro system.
Traffic and Airlines
As of 2022, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport handled 14.71 million passengers, a 55.7% decrease compared to the previous year. The airport also managed 184,500 tons of cargo, a 51.9% decrease, and recorded 122,700 aircraft movements, a 47.0% decrease, ranking 7th, 15th, and 14th in China, respectively. Despite the decline, the airport remains a key hub for domestic flights, with a strong presence from airlines like China Eastern Airlines, Shanghai Airlines, and Juneyao Airlines. The airport operates 135 domestic routes and 23 international routes, connecting to 115 destinations globally.
Visa-Free Transit Policy
Since January 30, 2016, Shanghai's airports, including Hongqiao, have implemented a 144-hour visa-free transit policy for travelers from 51 countries with valid international travel documents and onward tickets to a third country. As of November 1, 2016, Belarus and Monaco were added to the list, bringing the total to 53 countries. Starting July 15, 2024, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport expanded this policy to include 54 countries, allowing eligible foreign nationals with third-country visas to stay in Shanghai for up to 144 hours without a visa.
Conclusion
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport is a modern, efficient, and strategically located airport that provides travelers with easy access to Shanghai and other parts of China. With its rich history, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong transportation links, Hongqiao Airport remains a vital hub in China's aviation network, offering a seamless travel experience for millions of passengers each year.
