Refer China: Major Change at SH Hongqiao Airport Enhancing Travel Experience

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Major Change at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport Enhancing Travel Experience

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Starting from October 28, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport has introduced new measures to improve passenger convenience. For all domestic flights (excluding Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan), the cut-off time for check-in and security procedures for travelers without checked baggage has been reduced to 30 minutes before departure.

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Even more notably, for Spring Airlines operating from Terminal 1, the check-in cut-off has been shortened to just 25 minutes before departure — and this applies to both passengers with and without checked baggage.

This move marks another step forward in Hongqiao Airport's continued efforts throughout the year to shorten check-in deadlines and streamline the passenger experience. In fact, since January 2025, the cut-off time for domestic flights had already been reduced to within 35 minutes of departure.

So, what exactly is a flight cut-off time? It's the final moment when passengers can check in and drop off their luggage. These cut-offs ensure the airport and airlines have enough time — typically over ten critical pre-departure tasks — to guarantee safe and timely takeoffs.

Current Check-In Cut-Off Times at Hongqiao Airport:

Domestic Flights

30 minutes before departure (no checked luggage)
35 minutes before departure (with checked luggage)
Spring Airlines (T1): 25 minutes before departure (with or without checked luggage)

All Other Airlines:

International, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan Flights

Cathay Pacific, Air Macau, China Airlines, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, China Eastern, Shanghai Airlines: 40 minutes before departure
All Other Airlines: 45 minutes before departure

Travelers are encouraged to check with their airlines and arrive early to ensure a smooth boarding process. With these latest updates, Shanghai Hongqiao Airport continues to lead in making air travel more efficient and passenger-friendly.

Source: 上观新闻