🚄✈️Shanghai Airport Link: The Fastest Way from Pudong to Hongqiao
If you’ve ever trekked between Shanghai’s two busiest airports, you know it’s been a logistical pain. But since December 27, 2024, everything changed. Shanghai’s brand-new Airport Link Line now zips travelers between Hongqiao Terminal 2 and Pudong Terminals 1&2 in approximately 40 minutes—at speeds of 160 km/h—for a flat fare of ¥26 (≈ USD 3.60) .
🚄 What the Airport Link Line Offers
🗓 Operating Hours & Frequency
First trains depart from both airports at 06:00; last at around 22:39 .
Trains run every ~15 minutes . A future upgrade might see intervals shrink toward 3 minutes, thanks to automation tech .
📍 Route & Stations
Seven major stops connect Florida‑wide transit hubs:
Hongqiao Airport Terminal 2
Zhongchun Road
Jinghong Road
South Sanlin
East Kangqiao
Shanghai International Resort (near Disney)
Pudong Airport Terminals 1&2 .
Extensions will eventually connect to Pudong T3 and Shanghai East Railway Station .
💵 Fare Structure
Base fare: ¥4
Full trip: ¥26 (~0.45 ¥ per km) .
Tickets available from machines or with public transit cards/QR codes; cash, Alipay, WeChat accepted .
Transfer perks: 1 ¥ discount within 120 min of bus-rail transfers, 10% off monthly if metro spending >70 ¥, and a 30%‑off 20‑trip pass available .
🧳 Onboard Comfort & Design
Similar seating to high-speed trains—spacious, comfy.
Luggage space: both overhead and large racks .
Power outlets (USB/Type‑C) and even wireless-charging pads .
Stations decked with elevators, barrier-free access, toilets, child care rooms, and real-time info signage .
🔗 Transfers Made Easy
Hongqiao T2: seamlessly connects to Metro Lines 2, 10, and 17.
Zhongchun Road: in-station interchange with Line 9 🤝 .
Jinghong Road: transfer to Line 15.
Pudong T1/2: link to Metro Line 2 and the Maglev .
🎢 Real-World Traveler Notes
Reddit users agree: it’s a game-changer.
“36 mins in total and 26rmb with Alipay, WeChat or cash!”
“Game changer… much cheaper and faster than taxi… robust public transportation.”
Some tips:
Platform signage can be confusing—look for “City Rail” or “Suburban Railway.”
Hongqiao transfer walk is around 5 minutes—wide but manageable.
Peak-hour rides may be crowded with fewer seats; bring patience ().
✈️ Ideal For:
Transit passengers connecting via both airports in one trip.
Travelers seeking a fast, reliable, and affordable alternative to taxis or long metro rides.
Those connecting to Shanghai Disneyland: get off at Resort Station, then hop on Bus 50/70 to Disney (≈ 10–13 min ride) .
🧭 Planning Your Travel
Follow “City Rail” or “Airport Link” signs at terminals.
Buy a ticket (~¥26) or scan your transit QR at the gate.
Check platform numbers carefully—they vary with 4‑ or 8‑car trains.
Enjoy a comfortable, fast ride with charging facilities and luggage space.
Transfer easily to metro, Maglev, buses, or Disney shuttle.
🚀 Final Thoughts
Shanghai’s Airport Link Line is a major leap forward for citywide transit—spreading the convenience of high-speed connectivity across both aviation hubs. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, it’s a fast, efficient, and smart way to cross the city—without the hassle.
So next time you’re juggling flights between Pudong and Hongqiao, skip the taxi lines—step aboard the Airport Link, and let Shanghai’s rail innovation carry you.
