Shanghai's Pudong and Hongqiao International airports are experiencing a historic surge in passenger traffic as China's eight-day National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday period commences. Over 1.5 million travelers passed through both airports in the first three days of October, marking a 40% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels, according to airport authorities.
The 'two-way surge' reflects both inbound and outbound travel demand, with Southeast Asia, Europe, and domestic destinations like Hainan and the island of Taiwan ranking among top choices. Analysts attribute the boom to pent-up demand for family reunions and leisure travel after years of restricted mobility.
Airport staff have implemented crowd management measures, including expanded check-in zones and AI-powered security screening. 'We're prepared to handle 550,000 daily passengers through October 6,' said Pudong Airport spokesperson Li Wei.
The travel spike signals renewed confidence in China's economic recovery, with retail and tourism sectors anticipating a $120 billion holiday spending boost. Cultural events celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival – including mooncake markets and lantern exhibitions – are drawing both domestic and international visitors to Shanghai's waterfront districts.
