Hongqiao Airport Lounge Access for Malaysian Travellers

Oleh Jade

4 Disember 2025

Whether you’re flying home to Malaysia or connecting to another destination, the lounges at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) provide a calm and comfortable retreat from the bustling terminals. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your lounge experience.

Overview of Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (IATA: SHA) is one of China’s busiest airports, handling millions of domestic and regional passengers each year. Located about 13 kilometres west of central Shanghai, it serves as a major hub for both domestic flights and short-haul international services, with excellent connectivity to destinations across Asia.

Terminals & Layout

SHA has two main terminals:

• Terminal 1 for most domestic flights
• Terminal 2 for domestic and selected regional international flights

Both terminals are well-organised, with clear signage and convenient shuttle connections. Even during peak hours, navigating the airport is straightforward thanks to efficient passenger flow systems and helpful airport staff.

Passenger Traffic & Connections

As a key hub in eastern China, SHA connects travellers to major cities across the country and the region. For Malaysian passengers, the airport offers seamless connections via airlines such as Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and China-based carriers, making it a convenient stopover for both leisure and business travellers.

Lounge Facilities – What to Expect

Lounges at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport are designed to provide comfort and relaxation before your flight. Common features include:

• Quiet, spacious seating in air-conditioned environments
• High-speed Wi-Fi and multiple charging points
• A selection of hot meals, snacks, and beverages
• Business zones, resting areas, and shower facilities in select lounges

These lounges offer a welcome escape from the busy terminals, especially during long layovers or early-morning departures.

Why It Matters for Malaysian Travellers

For Malaysians travelling through Shanghai, SHA lounges offer more than just comfort—they enhance the overall travel experience. Whether you want to rest, work, enjoy a meal, or simply relax before your next flight, the lounges at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport ensure a smoother and more enjoyable journey.

✈️ Why Use a Lounge at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)

Source: ADB Safegate

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) is modern and efficient but can get busy, especially during peak travel periods. Airport lounges offer a quiet, comfortable escape where you can relax, refresh, or stay productive while waiting for your flight.

Recommended Lounges at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)

1. China Eastern Business Class Lounge (Terminal 1 & Terminal 2)
   Primarily for China Eastern and SkyTeam premium passengers. Facilities often include hot meals, beverages, business areas, rest zones, and showers—ideal for both business and leisure travellers.
2. Plaza Premium Lounge (Terminal 2)
   A popular pay-per-use lounge offering comfortable seating, snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, workspaces, and shower facilities. Accessible to travellers in any cabin class.
3. Shanghai Airlines Lounge (Terminal 1)
   Serves Shanghai Airlines and eligible passengers. Provides a peaceful environment with hot meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating before domestic flights.

💳 How Malaysians Can Access Lounges at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)

Source: quirrow - WordPress.com

Credit Cards

Many Malaysian credit cards—such as those from Maybank, CIMB, HSBC, Standard Chartered, and UOB—offer lounge access through Priority Pass, DragonPass, or LoungeKey. These programs typically include several complimentary visits per year, with additional visits charged at a discounted rate.
Most pay-per-use lounges at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport accept these membership programs, making it easy for Malaysian travellers to enjoy lounge facilities without buying a separate pass.

Lounge Passes

If you don’t have a premium credit card, you can still access SHA lounges by purchasing a pay-per-use lounge pass. Passes can be purchased through:

• Trip.com
• Plaza Premium Lounge (where applicable)
• DragonPass or Priority Pass partner platforms
• Direct purchase at the lounge reception

Prices vary by lounge, duration of access, and terminal. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel periods.

Airline Tickets or Frequent Flyer Status

Passengers flying in Business or First Class, as well as travellers with eligible elite frequent-flyer status, usually receive complimentary lounge access. Examples include:

• China Eastern Business Class passengers and SkyTeam elite members can access China Eastern Business Lounges in Terminals 1 and 2.
• Star Alliance Gold members flying on Star Alliance airlines can enter eligible partner lounges.
• Shanghai Airlines Business Class passengers and club members may access the Shanghai Airlines Lounge in Terminal 1.

🛂 Comparison: How Malaysians Can Access Lounges at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport (SHA)

⭐ Key Lounges & Access Tips at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)

Here are the main lounges at SHA, what they offer, and how travellers can access them:

✨ Access Tips for Travellers

• Check your credit card benefits – Many Malaysian cards offer lounge access through Priority Pass, DragonPass, or LoungeKey, often with several complimentary visits each year.
• Book online in advance – Trip.com or official lounge websites often provide better rates and guaranteed entry compared to walk-in access.
• Flying Business Class? – Business or First Class passengers on airlines such as China Eastern or Shanghai Airlines enjoy complimentary lounge access. Simply present your boarding pass.
• Consider pay-per-use passes – If you don’t have eligible credit cards or airline status, pay-per-use entry is available at several lounges. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak travel periods.

💡 How to Use Trip.com for Lounge Access & Planning at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport (SHA)

Trip.com makes it simple to find available lounges at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport, including their locations, operating hours, access rules, and amenities, helping you plan your airport experience efficiently.

Filter by Access Type

Use Trip.com to identify lounges that accept Priority Pass, DragonPass, or LoungeKey through your Malaysian credit card. You can also filter for lounges offering pay-per-use entry, perfect for travellers without premium cards.

Read Traveller Reviews

Reviews give useful insights into seating comfort, crowd levels, food and beverage quality, Wi-Fi speed, charging facilities, and overall cleanliness. They help you choose the lounge that best suits your travel needs.

Book in Advance

Whenever possible, book lounge access on Trip.com before arriving at SHA. Advance reservations often offer better rates than walk-in prices and guarantee entry during busy periods, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable lounge experience.

🌿 Relaxation & Wellness Facilities at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport Lounges

Source: American Express

The lounges at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) are designed to help travellers unwind and recharge before domestic or regional flights. Whether travelling for business, leisure, or connecting onward, these lounges offer a peaceful retreat away from the busy terminal areas.

Showers & Freshening Up

Several lounges at SHA provide shower facilities with towels and basic toiletries. This is particularly useful for passengers arriving from long flights, transiting through Shanghai, or preparing for onward journeys.

Massage Chairs & Rest Zones

While full spa services are not available in every lounge, select lounges feature massage chairs and quiet rest areas, helping reduce travel fatigue and offering a comfortable space to relax before boarding.

Comfortable Seating & Quiet Areas

SHA lounges offer cushioned seating, spacious layouts, and designated quiet zones, making them ideal for reading, light rest, or simply enjoying a calmer environment compared to the main departure halls.

Calm & Peaceful Environment

With soft lighting, consistent air-conditioning, and minimal background noise, these lounges create a tranquil atmosphere where travellers can rest, work, or refresh comfortably ahead of their flights.

Light Snacks & Refreshments

Most lounges provide a selection of light snacks, hot dishes, desserts, and beverages such as coffee, tea, and soft drinks. Dining options vary by lounge, but they offer a convenient and satisfying way to recharge before departure.

👀 Useful Tips for Travellers Using Lounges at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport (SHA)

Source: Upgraded to Economy

Check Your Ticket & Membership Status

If you are flying Business or First Class with airlines such as China Eastern or Shanghai Airlines, complimentary lounge access may already be included with your ticket. Economy Class passengers can still access lounges via Priority Pass, DragonPass, LoungeKey, or by purchasing a pay-per-use pass.

Have the Right Documents Ready

To ensure smooth entry, prepare:

• Your boarding pass
• Passport or identification
• Priority Pass, DragonPass, or LoungeKey membership (digital or physical), if applicable

Having these ready will speed up check-in.

Know the Opening Hours & Peak Times

Most SHA lounges open early and remain available until the last scheduled departures. Peak periods include:

• Holidays and major travel seasons
• Morning and afternoon outbound flights
• Busy weekends and peak domestic travel periods

Arriving slightly earlier increases your chances of securing a comfortable seat.

Manage Your Expectations

• Showers: Available in selected lounges, useful after long flights or before onward journeys.
• Food & Drinks: Light snacks, simple hot dishes, desserts, coffee, tea, and soft drinks are typical—don’t expect a full buffet.
• Wi-Fi & Charging: Generally reliable, though speeds may slow during busy periods. Carry a power bank just in case.
• Language Support: Lounge staff are accustomed to international travellers and usually speak English.

Cost & Booking Convenience

If you don’t have complimentary access, you can:

• Purchase entry directly at the lounge reception
• Book in advance through Trip.com or the lounge’s official website (e.g., Plaza Premium Lounge)

Booking ahead helps guarantee your spot, especially during peak travel periods.

✨ Making the Most of Lounge Access at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport

Source: International Services Shanghai

Lounges at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport (SHA) offer a quiet, comfortable escape from the busy terminals. Check your boarding gate, confirm whether your credit card, airline ticket, or frequent flyer membership grants access, or purchase a pay-per-use pass in advance to avoid crowds.

Inside, enjoy cushioned seating, complimentary snacks and drinks, Wi-Fi, and shower facilities. Take time to relax, recharge your devices, and refresh before your next flight.

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