Hongqiao Airport is adorned with Chinese New Year decorations. [Photo/Shanghai Airport Authority]
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport is stepping up preparations for the 2025 Spring Festival travel rush, which runs from Jan 14 to Feb 22.
The airport now features festive decor and on-site shopping carnivals, along with enhanced services to facilitate special-needs passengers like the elderly and disabled.
The airport expects to handle 31,000 flights and 5.36 million passengers, marking increases of 5.1 percent and 8.4 percent, respectively. Peak outbound travel is forecasted to occur from Jan 25-27, with peak inbound travel from Feb 3-5.
This year has seen a surge in "ice and snow tourism" and "warm-weather tourism", along with strong international travel demand. New routes to Perth in Australia, and Hanamaki in Japan, have been added. Popular domestic destinations include Shenyang and Harbin, while international favorites are Singapore, Japan, and South Korea.
To create a festive atmosphere, Hongqiao Airport is adorned with New Year decorations, thematic photo spots, and traditional Chinese ornaments. Staff in traditional attire will offer assistance and greet passengers, while interactive New Year events like lion dances and calligraphy performances are planned for Jan 22-23.
The airport's "First Flight Bracelet" program provides guidance and expedited services for first-time flyers and elderly travelers. More than 300 volunteers will assist with inquiries and luggage handling. The airport will also flexibly open additional security and check-in lanes, and trial the "One ID" facial recognition service.
The efficiency of ground transportation coordination will be enhanced at peak times. For international travelers, three one-stop service centers offer comprehensive services.
Staff in traditional attire offer assistance for international travelers. [Photo/Shanghai Airport Authority]
