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Asia PacíficoChina
Shanghai
China's electric metropolis where heritage meets haute couture.
Overview
Shanghai dazzles with its futuristic Pudong skyline, Art Deco heritage of the Bund, and a culinary scene that ranks among Asia's finest. For luxury travelers, the city presents an exhilarating mix of contemporary art galleries, exclusive Michelin-starred dining, and the rich cultural traditions of old Shanghai.
Gallery
Getting There
Shanghai Hongqiao Airport serves as the primary private aviation hub with modern FBO facilities and swift customs clearance. Pudong International Airport also handles private jets, offering Maglev train connections reaching downtown in just 8 minutes.
SHA
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport
Primary
PVG
Shanghai Pudong International Airport
Secondary
From Hong Kong
2.5h
From Tokyo
3h
From Singapore
5h
From Dubai
9h
Why Fly Private
Shanghai's two commercial airports — Pudong and Hongqiao — together handle over 100 million passengers annually, with commercial queues regularly exceeding 90 minutes. Hongqiao's private FBO, located much closer to the city center than Pudong, offers door-to-door convenience unmatched by commercial travel. For business travelers visiting multiple Chinese cities, private aviation navigates the country's complex airspace approval process through experienced handlers.
Private Jet Experience
Arriving at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport's FBO terminal, you are greeted by a bilingual concierge who guides you through a streamlined customs process in a private lounge. Your vehicle is staged mere steps from the terminal exit — a black Maybach or Rolls-Royce that delivers you to the Bund in under 25 minutes. The city's electric energy is palpable from the moment you land.
Luxury Experiences
- Private evening cruise on the Huangpu River with fine dining
- Exclusive guided tour of Shanghai's Art Deco architectural heritage
- VIP access to contemporary art exhibitions at West Bund
- Bespoke Shanghainese cuisine masterclass with a celebrated chef
- Private after-hours visit to Yu Garden and the Old City
Where to Stay
The Peninsula Shanghai
Mandarin Oriental Pudong
Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund
Bulgari Hotel Shanghai
Practical Information
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Language
Mandarin Chinese
Timezone
CST (UTC+8)
Visa
Most nationalities require a visa. China offers 144-hour transit visa exemption for many countries when transiting through Shanghai. Check current visa policies as they change frequently.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in China and is not expected. High-end international hotels may accept tips for exceptional service.
Emergency
110 (police) / 120 (ambulance) / 119 (fire)
Frequently Asked Questions
What airport do private jets use in Shanghai?
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) is the preferred option with a modern FBO terminal and proximity to the city center (25 minutes to the Bund). Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) also handles private jets but is approximately 50 minutes from central Shanghai.
Do I need special permits to fly private into China?
Yes, private flights into China require advance approval including flight permits, landing permits, and customs pre-clearance. Your charter operator typically handles this process, which requires 5–7 business days for initial applications. Chinese airspace is tightly regulated, so early planning is essential.
How much does it cost to fly private to Shanghai?
Charter costs to Shanghai vary by origin: approximately $10,000–$15,000 from Hong Kong on a midsize jet (2.5 hours), $20,000–$35,000 from Tokyo on a super-midsize jet (3 hours), and $50,000–$80,000 from Dubai on an ultra-long-range aircraft (9 hours). Permit fees and ground handling add to the total.
What is the best area to stay in Shanghai?
The Bund and Pudong waterfront areas offer the most iconic Shanghai experiences with views of the skyline. The former French Concession is ideal for boutique luxury and tree-lined strolls. Jing'an district offers excellent five-star hotels with convenient access to both business and cultural attractions.
Best Time to Visit
September to November for pleasant autumn weather
Climate
Humid subtropical with four distinct seasons; hot humid summers, mild autumns, cold winters, and warm springs.
Nearby Destinations
Insider Tip
The former French Concession neighborhood offers the most charming tree-lined streets for a private walking tour; visit during Shanghai Fashion Week for exclusive industry events.
Recommended Aircraft
For travel to Shanghai, we recommend the following Heavy Jet aircraft:
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