Shanghai Airport Link: Hongqiao to Pudong in 40 Min

The first time I had to transfer between Hongqiao and Pudong I took Metro Line 2 the whole way—over 90 minutes and two changes. When the Airport Link opened in December 2024, the same trip dropped to 40 minutes on one train. If you’re connecting flights or heading from one airport to the other, this is the fastest Shanghai airport transfer by rail and the option I use every time. This guide covers the route, fares, how to pay as a foreigner, and what to expect on board.

Last Updated: March 2026

What the Airport Link Is

The Airport Link (机场联络线) is a dedicated rail line linking Hongqiao Airport T2 and Pudong Airport T1 & T2. It’s about 68.6 km with 7 stations, end-to-end in 40 minutes, with trains every 15 minutes. It’s separate from the regular metro—look for “Airport Link” or 机场联络线 signs, not just “Metro.” First train 06:00, last train 22:39, both directions. Top speed is 160 km/h. For getting to or from the city from each airport, see our Hongqiao Airport and Pudong Airport guides.

Route and Stations

The line serves: Hongqiao Airport T2 (connection to Lines 2, 10, 17), Zhongchun Road (in-station transfer to Line 9), Jinghong Road (Line 15), South Sanlin, East Kangqiao, Shanghai International Resort (for Disney—adjacent to Line 11), and Pudong Airport T1&T2 (Line 2, Maglev). The Line 9 transfer at Zhongchun Road is inside the same station; other connections may require exiting and re-entering. If you’re going to Disney, get off at Shanghai International Resort—faster than using Line 11 from the city in many cases.

Fares and Payment

Hongqiao T2 to Pudong T1&T2 is ¥26. Pricing is distance-based (base ¥4 + ¥0.45/km). Discounts: ¥1 off when transferring from bus within 120 minutes; 10% off after ¥70/month cumulative spend (e.g. via SH MaaS); 20-ride package at 30% off (valid 30 days).

Foreign card tap (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, JCB contactless) is accepted, as are Alipay/WeChat QR, cash at machines, and Shanghai transport card. If your card is dual UnionPay and foreign network, UnionPay may be used first.

How to Ride

Find the Airport Link entrance (separate from the main metro concourse). Buy a ticket at the machine or use your card/QR at the turnstile. Pass security (bag X-ray), then scan or tap at the gate. Check the platform display for train type (4-car or 8-car) and wait in the right section. On board there are two-tier luggage racks; standard 24” and 28” suitcases are fine. Max 23 kg per item, total dimensions L+W+H ≤ 1.8 m.

Exit at your stop and tap/scan out. Stations have restrooms, elevators, wheelchair access, and nursing rooms.

Airport Link vs Other Options

For Hongqiao ↔ Pudong, the Airport Link is the fastest and most straightforward: 40 minutes, ¥26, no changes. Metro Line 2 takes 90–110 minutes and ¥9 with at least one change. Taxi/DiDi is 60–90 minutes and ¥250–350. Maglev only runs between Pudong and Longyang Road, so it doesn’t connect the two airports. Unless you have a reason to take a car, I’d choose the Airport Link.

Getting to Disney

Alight at Shanghai International Resort Station, then walk or take the short shuttle to the Disneyland entrance. From Hongqiao T2 it’s about 25 minutes and ~¥15; from Pudong Airport about 15 minutes and ~¥10. Often quicker than reaching Disney via Line 11 from downtown.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the fastest way to get from Hongqiao to Pudong Airport?
The Airport Link: about 40 minutes, ¥26, one train, no changes. It’s the quickest Shanghai airport transfer between the two airports. Metro Line 2 takes 90–110 minutes.

Is the Airport Link the same as the metro?
No. It’s a separate line with its own entrances and platforms. Look for “Airport Link” or 机场联络线. You can use the same payment methods (card tap, QR, transport card).

Can I use my foreign card?
Yes. Contactless Visa, Mastercard, Amex, and JCB work at the turnstiles.

How much luggage can I bring?
Each item max 23 kg, max dimensions L+W+H 1.8 m. There are luggage racks on the train. Normal airline cabin bags and checked suitcases are fine.

Conclusion

For transfers between Hongqiao and Pudong, the Airport Link has changed the game: one train, 40 minutes, ¥26. I use it every time I switch airports. Find the dedicated Airport Link entrance, tap your card or buy a ticket, and you’ll be at the other airport without the long metro ride or the cost of a taxi.

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