Complete Guide to the Shanghai Hongqiao-Pudong Airport Link: Fast, Convenient, and Affordable!

Complete Guide To The Shanghai Hongqiao Pudong Airport Link

The long-awaited direct link between Shanghai’s two major airports, Hongqiao and Pudong, is finally here! Launched on December 27, 2024, the Shanghai Airport Link offers a seamless and speedy connection between the two airports, cutting travel time to just 39 minutes. This guide provides essential information about the new service, including how to get tickets, where to board, and what to expect during your journey.

Schedule & Frequency

Operating Hours:

  • First Train: 06:00
  • Last Train: 22:00

Trains depart approximately every 15 minutes, ensuring minimal wait times.

Route & Stations

  • Route: The service connects Hongqiao Terminal 2 to Pudong Airport Terminals 1 and 2 with stops at the following locations:
    1. Hongqiao Terminal 2
    2. Zhongchun Road (中春路)
    3. Jinghong Road (景洪路)
    4. Sanlin South (三林南)
    5. Kangqiao East (康桥东)
    6. Shanghai International Tourism Resort (上海国际旅游度假区)
    7. Pudong Airport Terminals 1 & 2

Ticket Pricing

  • Full Journey: ¥26
  • Base Fare: ¥4
  • Payment Methods: Tickets can be purchased at self-service kiosks, with payment options for cash or QR code. Alternatively, you can use a transport card or QR code for a contactless entry.

Train Comfort & Facilities

The trains on the Airport Link are designed for passenger comfort, featuring blue seats similar to those in second-class high-speed trains. The cabins are spacious, with convenient luggage racks and charging ports, ensuring a pleasant journey.

How to Buy Tickets

  1. Self-Service Ticket Machines: Located on the left side of the entrance, the ticket machines accept both cash and QR code payments. Once you purchase a ticket, the machine will print a paper ticket, which can be scanned at the gate using the QR code.
  2. QR Code or Transit Card: You can also use your QR code or a public transport card to enter the station, just like you would on the regular metro system. Be sure to check that your scan is successful before proceeding to the gate.

How to Board the Train

  1. From Hongqiao Airport:
    • The station is located at Hongqiao Terminal 2. If you’re coming from the T2 terminal or the high-speed train/metro station, simply follow the “City Rail” (市域铁) signs to the entrance.
    • Taxi tip: If you’re taking a taxi, set your destination to Hongqiao Airport Terminal 2’s Gate 11, which is directly opposite the Airport Link entrance.
  2. From Pudong Airport:
    • The station is on the second floor of Pudong Airport. If you’re not picking up luggage, you can exit directly from either T1 or T2 and walk about 5 minutes to the “City Rail” entrance.
    • Important: The Airport Link is not yet integrated with the regular metro system. You’ll need to exit the station and transfer to another mode of transportation if you’re continuing your journey on the metro.
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