Shanghai Hongqiao Airport Announces Operational Change for 2024!

Starting January 1, 2024, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport will implement a significant change in its operation for domestic flights. The cut-off time for boarding, which is the latest time passengers can complete check-in and baggage drop procedures, will be reduced from 45 minutes before departure to just 40 minutes.

This change applies to all domestic flights operated by 11 airlines, including Air China and Juneyao Airlines.

Previously, Eastern Airlines and China United Airlines had already adjusted their cut-off times from 40 minutes to 35 minutes, starting December 1st. With this new adjustment, all domestic flights at Hongqiao Airport will now adhere to the 40-minute cut-off time.

The cut-off time for flights is a critical point in airport operations. It marks the deadline for passengers to complete all necessary pre-flight procedures. After this time, the airline stops processing check-in activities. From the cut-off time to the actual take-off, the airport staff has to complete various tasks including security checks, balancing the aircraft’s load, loading luggage, catering distribution, retracting jet bridges or passenger stairs, and pushing back the aircraft.

Shortening the cut-off time by 5 minutes requires heightened efficiency and smoother coordination among all involved parties, including airport staff, air traffic control, and airlines. This move is part of an initiative to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency at the airport. It aligns with the broader objectives outlined in the Civil Aviation Administration’s “14th Five-Year Plan for Civil Aviation Development,” which includes projects aimed at reducing travel time.

Source: The Paper