Where is pvg

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: PVG is the IATA code for Shanghai Pudong International Airport, located in Pudong, Shanghai, China. It opened on October 1, 1999, and serves as one of China's two major international aviation hubs, handling over 76 million passengers in 2019. The airport covers approximately 40 square kilometers and operates two main passenger terminals with a third under construction.

Key Facts

PVG is the IATA code for Shanghai Pudong International Airport, which opened on October 1, 1999
The airport handled over 76 million passengers in 2019, making it one of the busiest in China
PVG covers approximately 40 square kilometers (15.4 square miles) in Pudong, Shanghai
The airport has two main passenger terminals (T1 and T2) with a third terminal (T3) under construction since 2022
PVG serves as a major hub for China Eastern Airlines and Shanghai Airlines, with over 210 destinations worldwide

Overview

PVG is the International Air Transport Association (IATA) code for Shanghai Pudong International Airport, one of China's primary international aviation gateways. Located in Pudong, Shanghai, this airport serves as a crucial transportation hub for Eastern China and the Asia-Pacific region. The airport's strategic position makes it a vital link between China and global destinations, facilitating both passenger travel and cargo operations. Its development reflects Shanghai's emergence as a global economic powerhouse.

The airport opened on October 1, 1999, replacing Hongqiao Airport as Shanghai's main international facility. Initial construction cost approximately 12 billion yuan (about $1.45 billion USD at the time). The airport was designed to alleviate congestion at Hongqiao and support Shanghai's growing international trade. Today, it stands as a testament to China's rapid infrastructure development and aviation expansion over the past two decades.

How It Works

Shanghai Pudong International Airport operates as a comprehensive aviation facility with multiple components working together.

Terminal Operations: PVG currently has two main passenger terminals (T1 and T2) covering a combined area of 820,000 square meters. Terminal 1 opened with the airport in 1999 and was designed to handle 20 million passengers annually. Terminal 2 opened in 2008 ahead of the Shanghai Expo, increasing capacity to 60 million passengers. Both terminals feature extensive shopping, dining, and passenger services.
Runway System: The airport operates four parallel runways, with the longest measuring 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). The runways can handle simultaneous takeoffs and landings, with capacity for up to 100 aircraft movements per hour during peak times. The airport's air traffic control system manages approximately 1,000 daily flights during normal operations.
Cargo Facilities: PVG is one of the world's busiest cargo airports, handling over 3.6 million metric tons of cargo in 2021. The airport features dedicated cargo terminals operated by companies like DHL, UPS, and FedEx. The cargo area spans approximately 1.5 million square meters and includes specialized facilities for perishables, pharmaceuticals, and high-value goods.
Transportation Connections: The airport connects to Shanghai's urban center via multiple transportation options. The Shanghai Maglev Train provides the fastest connection, covering the 30-kilometer distance to Longyang Road Station in just 8 minutes at speeds up to 431 km/h (268 mph). Additionally, two subway lines (Line 2 and the Airport Express Line) and numerous bus routes serve the airport.

Key Comparisons

Feature	Shanghai Pudong (PVG)	Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA)
Primary Function	International flights and cargo	Domestic and regional flights
Passenger Traffic (2019)	76.15 million	45.64 million
Cargo Volume (2021)	3.68 million metric tons	0.42 million metric tons
Distance to City Center	30 km (19 miles)	13 km (8 miles)
Terminal Count	2 main terminals (T3 under construction)	2 terminals
Major Airlines	China Eastern, Shanghai Airlines, international carriers	China Eastern, Spring Airlines, domestic carriers

Why It Matters

Economic Impact: PVG contributes significantly to Shanghai's economy, generating over 200,000 direct and indirect jobs. The airport facilitates approximately $200 billion in international trade annually through its cargo operations. Its presence has attracted numerous logistics companies and multinational corporations to establish regional headquarters in Pudong.
Global Connectivity: The airport connects Shanghai to over 210 destinations worldwide, including 120 international cities. This connectivity positions Shanghai as a global aviation hub and supports China's Belt and Road Initiative. PVG serves as the main gateway for international travelers visiting Eastern China.
Infrastructure Development: The ongoing expansion, including the T3 terminal project (scheduled for completion in 2025), represents a 45 billion yuan ($6.5 billion) investment. This expansion will increase annual passenger capacity to 130 million and cargo capacity to 5.8 million metric tons. The development showcases China's commitment to world-class aviation infrastructure.

Looking forward, Shanghai Pudong International Airport is poised to maintain its position as a leading global aviation hub. The completion of Terminal 3 and associated facilities will enhance its capacity and efficiency. As air travel continues to recover post-pandemic, PVG will play a crucial role in reconnecting China with the world. The airport's continued development supports Shanghai's ambition to become a global financial and shipping center by 2035.