The Shanghai Airport Link Line is a high-speed railway connecting the city’s two major international airports: Pudong International Airport (PVG, serving Terminals 1 & 2) and Hongqiao International Airport (SHA, serving Terminal 2). Pudong Airport is located in the Pudong New Area, a considerable distance from the city center. with the Airport Link Line, you can now swiftly travel to Hongqiao Airport and the adjoining Hongqiao Railway Station—a major urban hub—ensuring seamless transfers for your onward journey.
airpot link line train
Key Stations
The Airport Link Line runs in both directions, connecting seven key stations. The list below shows The route from Pudong Airport (east) to Hongqiao Airport (west):
Pudong International Airport (T1 & T2): The starting point at PVG airport.
Shanghai International Resort: The key stop for Shanghai Disneyland, just a 5-minute Taxi ride away.
Kangqiao East
Sanlin South
Jinghong Road: Transfer to Metro Line 15.
Zhongchun Road: Transfer to Metro Line 9.
Hongqiao International Airport (T2): The final stop, connecting you directly to SHA airport and The Hongqiao Railway Station. Here, you can also transfer to Metro Lines 2 and 10.
Shanghai Airpot LInk Line
Operating Hours and Frequency
As of April 2026, the Operating Hours for the Shanghai Airport Link Line are as follows. Please be aware that schedules can occasionally change, so it’s always wise to check for the latest official information.
Trains on The Airport Link Line typically run approximately every 15 minutes. The single journey between Pudong International Airport and Hongqiao International Airport takes about 40 minutes.
💡 Pro Tip for Travelers:
Shanghai’s rush hour generally runs from 07:00 to 09:00 in The morning and 17:00 to 19:00 in The evening.
During these peak times, the Airport Link Line increases its services with 8-car trains to accommodate more passengers. Outside of rush hours, a mix of 8-car and 4-car trains operates.
Expect The Airport Link Line to be particularly crowded on Friday evenings. If possible, plan your travel to avoid this period for a more comfortable experience.
As The primary gateway to this bustling metropolis, Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) is massive, but it doesn’t have to be stressful.
In this guide, I’ll point out The essential things you need to know about PVG Transport—from The high-speed Maglev and The Airport Link Line to taxis and terminal layouts.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, these tips will help you navigate your way from the arrival gate to the city center with ease and confidence.
Transport Operating Hours and Boarding Locations
Various transportation options are available to get you to and from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) Terminals 1 and 2, including the Metro, Maglev, Airport Link Line (Suburban Railway), taxis, airport buses, and E-Hailing services
Late-Night Arrivals: If your flight lands after 10:30 PM, please note that the Metro and Maglev will be closed. Your best options are the Night Bus (Late Night Line), Official Taxis, or E-Hailing (Didi), which operate 24/7.
Mind The Distance: PVG is massive! After clearing customs, it can take around 30 minutes to walk to the Transportation Hub (where the Maglev and Metro are located). If you have heavy bags, don’t hesitate to use the free luggage trolleys available throughout the arrival halls and walkways.
Follow The Signs: Don’t worry about getting lost. The airport is equipped with clear, bilingual (Chinese/English) overhead signage. Simply follow The icons for “Maglev,” “Metro,” or “Taxi”—they will guide you directly to your boarding point across The terminals.
pudong airpot transport information
Transport Speed, Cost, and Payment Methods Comparison
To help you weigh your options, here is a detailed comparison of each transport mode’s speed, pricing (in both RMB and USD), and how you can pay for your fare upon arrival.
Tap to Ride: Contactless Payment with International Credit Cards
Shanghai’s transit system has become incredibly tourist-friendly. You can now use your international credit card to pay for the Metro, Maglev, and Airport Link Line directly at the gate, eliminating the need to wait in line for a physical ticket.
How it works: Simply tap your physical credit card on the ICcard reader (marked with the contactless “wave” symbol) at the ticket gate when entering or exiting the station. Once the screen displays “Please Enter” or “Please Exit,” you can proceed. The entire process is seamless and takes only 1 to 2 seconds.
Supported Card Types: Visa, Mastercard, American Express (AMEX), JCB, and UnionPay.
The Process: When you tap in, the system will place a pre-authorization hold on your card. The final, accurate fare will be calculated and charged automatically once you “tap out” at your destination.
Important Precautions:
Activation: Contactless setup and authorization policies vary by bank. We highly recommend contacting your bank before your trip to ensure your card is activated for overseas transit use.
Enable Contactless: Ensure your card is enabled for contactless payments (look for the “wave” symbol on your card) and authorized for small international transactions.
shanghai Metro Tap To Rideshanghai Metro Tap To Ride Detailshanghai Metro entrance
💡 Pro Tips for Gate Entry and Assistance
To ensure a hassle-free experience at The gates, keep these three things in mind:
Look for The Green Arrow: Before approaching a gate, make sure to use one marked with a bright green arrow. This indicates the gate is active and open for entry or exit. If you see a red “X,” that specific gate is either closed or designated for passengers coming from the opposite direction.
Normally Open Gates: Don’t be surprised if the ticket gates are already open! Many stations in Shanghai use gates that are “open by default” to speed up the flow of passengers. Even if the gates are open, you must tap your card or scan your QR code. If you attempt to pass without a valid tap, the doors will automatically snap shut to block you.
Seek Assistance: If you encounter any issues with your payment, card, or directions, look for the Service Center (usually a glass-walled booth located near the ticket gates). Staff are available at every Metro, Maglev, and Airport Link Line station to assist you.
Destinations, Travel Times, and Comfort Level Comparison
To help you finalize your plans, the following table breaks down the travel times to Shanghai’s key districts and compares the comfort of each transit mode—helping you balance speed with a stress-free experience.
Luggage Storage: Please note that Metro Line 2 is a standard commuter line and does not have dedicated luggage racks. You will need to keep your bags with you at your seat or standing area. In contrast, the Maglev, Airport Link Line, Airport Buses, and Taxis all provide ample space or dedicated compartments for suitcases.
Frequency and Waiting Times:
Metro Line 2: High frequency, with trains arriving approximately every 3 minutes.
Airport Link Line: Moderate frequency, departing every 15 minutes.
Maglev Train: Longer intervals, typically departing every 30 minutes.
Taxis: Available 24/7, but you may need to queue for 5 to 15 minutes depending on the time of day and passenger volume.
PVG Transportation Hub : Layout & Service Map
The Transportation Hub , located conveniently between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, is The central point for all ground transit and essential amenities. Below is The layout map and a list of services you can find here:
PuDong Airpot Tansportation Hub Plan
Ground Transportation:
Metro Line 2, Maglev, and Airport Link Line (Suburban Railway)
Taxi Stands, E-Hailing (Didi) Pick-up Points, and Airport Buses
Long Distance Bus Station
Parking Garages (P1/P2)
Passenger Facilities:
Essentials: Currency Exchange, Express Delivery, and Police Station.
Comfort: Airport Hotel, Meeting Points, and Drinking Water Stations.
Health & Family: Medical First Aid, Nursing Rooms, and Family Restrooms.
Restrooms: Standard and Accessible Restrooms.
Navigation & Accessibility:
Elevators, Escalators, and Moving Walkways
Dedicated Accessible Elevators for those with limited mobility.
conclusion
Navigating one of The world’s busiest hubs doesn’t have to be stressful. By knowing where to go, how to pay, and which transport mode fits your needs, you’ve already mastered The hardest part of your arrival. Remember to take your time, keep this guide handy, and don’t hesitate to ask The friendly staff at The Service Centers if you need help.
Safe travels on your way into The city, and have a wonderful time exploring The vibrant streets of Shanghai!
