Long closed to trade with the West, the opening of China’s markets in the 1980s was the catalyst for Shanghai’s rapid growth. Over the next two decades, urbanization exploded in the city, transforming Shanghai into a modern mecca. Now Mainland China’s largest and most developed metropolis, Shanghai is an international financial and cultural powerhouse. With Shanghai as the commercial and financial center of China, many of the private jet charters to Shanghai are for business purposes.

When flying by private charter to Shanghai, whether for business or pleasure, it is helpful to be aware that the aviation infrastructure in China has not yet caught up to its economic expansion. Landing permits require 24 hours for approval. Additionally, limitations in Airport capacity drive up operational costs, making flights to Shanghai more costly than those to its North American and European counterparts. Limited private fleets also increase the cost of private flights from Shanghai as demand out paces supply. Because the majority of aircraft available for charter are heavy jets, the overall cost to charter in Shanghai and China can be higher as well as.

This information is not meant to deter you from chartering a jet to Shanghai as much to set expectations. ElJet works with a network of operators knowledgeable in the operational complexities of China to ensure you a smooth experience. Our partners also have the Ultra Long Range aircraft capable of flying nonstop to and from Shanghai and other Chinese cities.

Two airports are available for charter flights to Shanghai: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (ZSPD, PVG) and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (ZSSS, SHA). Located 30 km (19 mi) east of the city center, Pudong is the main airport serving international commercial flights and ranked #9 on the list of World’s Busiest Airports. For this reason, Hongqiao Airport, which is also closer to the city center (13 km/ 8 mi), can be a better option for private flights to Shanghai.

As your private charter approaches Shanghai, make sure to take a glimpse of the city’s impressive skyline; with new high-rise buildings going up constantly, it might look very different the next time you see it!

The post Shanghai appeared first on Eljet - Private Jet Charters.