Shanghair Airport Transfer from Asiana to Juneyao
I am travelling Seoul - Shanghai - Manchester with Asiana operating the 1st, and Juneyao the 2nd flight. Seems i need to do a self-transfer by geting my luggage - going through customs - going to airline counter - going through security - going through customs - and I'm back in and can look for my gate. Is this the case? Has anyone gone through this before? I've never done a self-transfer, and I have 4hr 50min between my flights.
Yes, your understanding is correct. Since your flights are on separate airlines and not on a single through-ticket, you will need to do a self-transfer at Shanghai Pudong Airport. Here’s the process step by step:
- After landing from Seoul on Asiana, you will collect your checked luggage at baggage claim.
- Go through Chinese immigration (customs) as you are entering the country.
- Proceed to the Juneyao Airlines check-in counter to drop off your luggage and get your boarding pass for the flight to Manchester.
- After check-in, go through security and customs again to enter the departure area for your international flight.
- Finally, locate your departure gate and wait for boarding.
Some important considerations:
- 4 hours and 50 minutes should generally be sufficient for this transfer, but it requires moving efficiently. Pudong Airport is large, and transfer between terminals can take time, especially if your Asiana flight arrives at Terminal 1 and Juneyao departs from Terminal 2. Make sure to check terminal information in advance.
- Be aware of peak arrival times; customs and security lines can occasionally be long, so allow some buffer.
- Keep all necessary documents ready: passport, boarding passes, and visas if required (for a self-transfer you may need a valid Chinese visa unless eligible for transit without visa, depending on your nationality).
- Consider using airport signage, staff assistance, or a terminal shuttle if needed, as walking distances can be long.
Tips from travelers who have done similar self-transfers:
- Move directly to immigration as soon as you exit the plane to save time.
- If you’re unfamiliar with the airport, allow extra 30–60 minutes for navigation between terminals.
- Some travelers recommend booking travel insurance in case of delays, as missing the second flight could be costly.
Overall, while self-transfers require more effort than through-checking your luggage, 4 hours and 50 minutes is generally adequate for a confident traveler at Shanghai Pudong Airport.
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