About Shanghai Airlines
Shanghai Airlines is a major Chinese carrier headquartered in Shanghai, operating as a wholly owned subsidiary of China Eastern Airlines. Identified by its IATA code FM and ICAO code CSH, the airline was founded on 30 December 1985, making it one of China's earliest commercial airlines established through multi-source investment by the Shanghai municipal government and local enterprises. Shanghai Airlines operates from dual hubs at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) and Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), connecting passengers to over 80 domestic and international destinations across Asia and beyond.
As an affiliate member of the SkyTeam airline alliance since June 2011, Shanghai Airlines offers Malaysian travellers seamless connections to a vast global network. Whether you are flying from Kuala Lumpur to Shanghai for business or leisure, the airline provides reliable service backed by nearly four decades of aviation experience.
Airline Overview and History
Shanghai Airlines has a rich history spanning nearly four decades. From its humble beginnings as a regionally focused carrier, it has grown into a significant player in China's aviation landscape. Below are key milestones in the airline's journey:
- 30 December 1985 – Shanghai Airlines was officially established as China's first multi-investor commercial airline, funded by the Shanghai municipal government and local enterprises.
- 1997 – The airline launched its first international services, expanding beyond domestic Chinese routes.
- 2002 – Shanghai Airlines became a member of Star Alliance, its first global airline alliance membership.
- 2007 – The airline was listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, marking a major corporate milestone.
- February 2010 – China Eastern Airlines completed its merger with Shanghai Airlines, making it a wholly owned subsidiary. Shanghai Airlines was subsequently delisted from the Shanghai Stock Exchange.
- November 2010 – Shanghai Airlines departed Star Alliance as part of its transition to align with China Eastern Airlines' alliance membership.
- 21 June 2011 – The airline officially joined the SkyTeam alliance alongside China Eastern Airlines, becoming the 14th member of the alliance.
- 2018 – Shanghai Airlines took delivery of its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, introducing a new premium international cabin product featuring First Class suites and Business Class seats with doors.
- January 2025 – Shanghai Airlines launched its first African route, connecting Shanghai to Casablanca via Marseille using Boeing 787-9 aircraft.
Today, Shanghai Airlines continues to operate as a distinct brand under the China Eastern Group, maintaining its own livery, cabin products and service identity while benefiting from the resources and network of its parent company.
Fleet and Aircraft
Shanghai Airlines operates an all-Boeing fleet of approximately 88 aircraft, ensuring consistency in crew training, maintenance and operational efficiency. The fleet comprises the following aircraft types:
- Boeing 737-800 – The backbone of the fleet, with around 70 aircraft deployed on domestic and short-haul regional routes. Configured with Business and Economy Class seating, each aircraft seats approximately 160 to 170 passengers.
- Boeing 737-8 MAX – A newer addition to the narrowbody fleet, offering improved fuel efficiency and extended range. Shanghai Airlines continues to take delivery of additional 737-8 MAX aircraft to gradually modernise its short-haul operations.
- Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner – The airline's flagship widebody aircraft for international long-haul services. With approximately 8 aircraft in service, the 787-9 features a four-class configuration: First Class (4 seats), Business Class (26 seats), Premium Economy (28 seats) and Economy Class (227 seats).
The airline maintains high safety and maintenance standards in line with Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) regulations and international best practices, with an average fleet age of approximately 10 years.
Top Flight Routes
Shanghai Airlines serves a wide network of domestic and international destinations from its Shanghai hubs. For Malaysian travellers, the most relevant route is the direct service between Kuala Lumpur and Shanghai. Here are some of the airline's most popular routes:
- Kuala Lumpur to Shanghai – A key international route connecting Malaysia's capital to one of China's largest economic centres. Book your Kuala Lumpur to Shanghai flight on Traveloka for the best deals.
- Shanghai to Tokyo – A popular East Asian route connecting two of the region's most visited cities, served using both Boeing 737 and 787 aircraft.
- Shanghai to Seoul – Frequent services linking Shanghai with South Korea's capital, popular with both business and leisure travellers. Browse Kuala Lumpur to Seoul flights on Traveloka.
- Shanghai to Bangkok – A sought-after Southeast Asian route catering to tourists and business travellers alike. If you are connecting from Malaysia, consider booking a Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok flight as well.
- Shanghai to Singapore – A key business route connecting two major Asian financial hubs. Check Kuala Lumpur to Singapore flights for connecting options.
- Shanghai to Hong Kong – One of the busiest routes in the network, connecting two of China's most important cities. Check fares for Kuala Lumpur to Hong Kong flights if you plan to connect.
- Shanghai to Osaka – A popular route for Japanese food and culture enthusiasts. Browse Kuala Lumpur to Osaka fares on Traveloka.
- Shanghai to Melbourne – A long-haul route operated with Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, connecting China with Australia. Explore Kuala Lumpur to Melbourne fares for multi-city itineraries.
- Shanghai to Casablanca (via Marseille) – The airline's newest intercontinental route launched in January 2025, connecting China to Africa and Southern Europe.
With SkyTeam partner connections through China Eastern Airlines, Malaysian passengers can also access an extended network of destinations across China, Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia and beyond.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
Shanghai Airlines provides the following baggage allowances for passengers on international flights. Note that allowances may vary based on route, cabin class and fare type.
Carry-on Baggage
- Economy Class: 1 piece, maximum 7 kg, with dimensions not exceeding 55 cm × 40 cm × 20 cm.
- Business Class: 2 pieces, maximum 7 kg each, with dimensions not exceeding 55 cm × 40 cm × 20 cm per piece.
- First Class: 2 pieces, maximum 7 kg each, with dimensions not exceeding 55 cm × 40 cm × 20 cm per piece.
Each passenger is also allowed to bring one small personal item such as a handbag, laptop bag or small backpack.
Checked Baggage (International Flights)
- Economy Class: 1 piece, maximum 23 kg per piece.
- Business Class: 2 pieces, maximum 32 kg per piece.
- First Class: 3 pieces, maximum 32 kg per piece.
Excess Baggage
If your baggage exceeds the free allowance, excess baggage fees apply. The fee is calculated at 1.5% of the highest published adult Economy Class one-way fare on the same route per kilogram. Passengers are advised to pre-purchase additional baggage allowance through the airline's website or customer service to secure a lower rate. Always weigh your luggage before heading to the airport to avoid unexpected charges.
Prohibited Items
Flammable liquids, explosives, compressed gases, corrosive substances, sharp objects and lithium batteries exceeding 160 Wh are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage. For a full list of restricted items, refer to the airline's official website or contact customer service.
Check-in Guide
Shanghai Airlines offers multiple check-in options to ensure a smooth boarding experience:
Online Check-in
- Availability: Opens 24 hours before departure and closes 90 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
- How to access: Via the China Eastern Airlines website or mobile app (Shanghai Airlines uses China Eastern's check-in system as its parent company).
- Eligibility: Available for adult passengers and children accompanied by an adult. Passengers with infants, special service requests or special meals must check in at the airport counter.
Airport Counter Check-in
- Counter opening: Generally opens 150 minutes (2.5 hours) before departure for international flights.
- Recommended arrival: At least 60 minutes before departure to allow sufficient time for baggage check-in and security screening.
- Counter closing: Closes 45 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
You can check your flight status in real time on the Traveloka Flight Status page before heading to the airport.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
Shanghai Airlines offers up to four cabin classes on its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner international services, and two classes on domestic Boeing 737 flights.
First Class (Boeing 787-9 only)
- Arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration with just 4 suites.
- Suites feature double doors for maximum privacy, fully flat beds measuring over 198 cm (6 ft 6 in) and 32-inch personal entertainment screens.
- The centre pair of suites can be converted into a shared space for couples or colleagues travelling together.
- Gourmet multi-course dining with Chinese and international cuisine served on fine porcelain.
Business Class
- On the Boeing 787-9, Business Class features 26 seats in a 1-2-1 layout with individual doors for privacy, based on the Thompson Aero Seating Vantage XL platform.
- Seats convert into fully flat beds measuring approximately 193 cm (6 ft 4 in), with 18-inch personal entertainment screens.
- On the Boeing 737, Business Class offers recliner seats in a 2-2 configuration with enhanced legroom and meal services.
Premium Economy (Boeing 787-9 only)
- 28 seats with extra legroom and wider seat width compared to standard Economy.
- Enhanced meal service and amenity kits.
Economy Class
- Comfortable seating on both 737 and 787-9 aircraft with personal entertainment screens on the Dreamliner.
- Complimentary hot meals and beverages on all flights.
- A selection of Chinese and Western meals, including halal options available upon pre-order on select routes.
In-flight entertainment on the Boeing 787-9 includes personal seatback screens with a library of Hollywood films, Chinese movies, TV programmes, music and games.
Passenger Policies and Special Services
Children and Infants
- Infants (under 2 years): Must be accompanied by an adult. Infants travel on the adult's lap and are charged at 10% of the adult fare. A valid birth certificate or passport is required.
- Children (2–11 years): Must be accompanied by an adult or travel as an unaccompanied minor. Children are charged at 75% of the applicable adult fare on international routes.
Unaccompanied Minors
- Available for children aged 5 to 11 travelling without an adult.
- The service must be requested at least 48 hours before departure.
- Dedicated airline staff will escort the child from check-in through to handover at the arrival airport.
- Charged at the full adult fare on international flights.
Pregnant Passengers
- Under 32 weeks: No special documentation required, though carrying a maternity handbook is recommended.
- 32 to 35 weeks: A Certificate of Diagnosis is required, issued within 72 hours before boarding. It must include the passenger's name, age, gestation period, estimated delivery date, flight details, fitness-to-fly assessment and any special care needs.
- 36 weeks and above: Passengers are not permitted to fly for safety reasons.
Special Assistance
- Wheelchair service: Available upon request at least 48 hours before departure. Wheelchairs are provided at the airport for passengers with reduced mobility.
- Medical equipment: Passengers needing to carry medical devices such as portable oxygen concentrators should notify the airline at least 72 hours in advance.
- Visual or hearing impairment: Dedicated assistance is available throughout the journey, from check-in to arrival.
Frequent Flyer Programme
Shanghai Airlines participates in the Eastern Miles frequent flyer programme, shared with its parent company China Eastern Airlines. Members earn miles on all Shanghai Airlines and China Eastern flights, as well as on SkyTeam partner airlines.
Earning Miles
- Miles are earned based on the distance flown and fare class purchased.
- Additional miles can be earned through credit card spending, hotel stays and partner purchases.
Redeeming Miles
- Award flights on Shanghai Airlines, China Eastern and SkyTeam partner airlines.
- Cabin upgrades from Economy to Business or Business to First Class.
- Excess baggage redemption and other travel services.
Elite Status Tiers
- Silver: Priority check-in, extra baggage allowance and lounge access on select routes.
- Gold: Enhanced benefits including SkyTeam Elite Plus perks, priority boarding and additional baggage allowance.
- Platinum: The highest tier, offering premium lounge access across SkyTeam lounges worldwide, guaranteed seating and complimentary upgrades subject to availability.
Sign up for Eastern Miles on the China Eastern Airlines website and start earning points on your next Shanghai Airlines flight from Malaysia.
Why Book Shanghai Airlines Flights on Traveloka
Traveloka makes it easy for Malaysian travellers to book Shanghai Airlines flights with a range of benefits:
- Competitive fares: Compare Shanghai Airlines ticket prices with other carriers to find the best deal for your trip to Shanghai and beyond.
- Flexible payment options: Pay using credit or debit cards, online banking, or popular Malaysian e-wallets such as Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay and ShopeePay.
- Instant e-ticket: Receive your booking confirmation and e-ticket immediately after payment, with no need to visit a physical counter.
- Price Alert: Set up fare alerts for your preferred Shanghai Airlines route and get notified when prices drop.
- 24/7 customer support: Traveloka's customer support team is available around the clock to assist with booking enquiries, changes and cancellations.
- Traveloka Points: Earn reward points on every booking, redeemable for discounts on future flights, hotels and other travel products.
- Bundled deals: Book your Shanghai Airlines flight together with hotels, airport transfers or travel insurance for additional savings.
Shanghai Airlines Promotions and Deals on Traveloka
Finding affordable Shanghai Airlines flights from Malaysia is easier when you take advantage of promotions and smart booking strategies on Traveloka:
- Book early: Flights to Shanghai and other Chinese destinations tend to be cheapest when booked 4 to 8 weeks in advance.
- Fly midweek: Tuesday and Wednesday departures are typically more affordable than weekend flights. Avoid peak travel periods such as Chinese New Year and Golden Week for better fares.
- Use Price Alert: Activate Traveloka's Price Alert feature for your desired route and travel dates to receive notifications when fares drop.
- Check Traveloka Promo page: Visit the promotions section on Traveloka regularly for exclusive voucher codes and flash sales on Shanghai Airlines flights.
- Consider off-peak seasons: Travelling during shoulder seasons (March to May and September to November) often yields lower fares and fewer crowds at popular Chinese destinations.
- Bundle your booking: Save more by booking your flight and hotel together as a package deal on Traveloka.
- Explore connecting routes: If direct fares are high, consider connecting through other Chinese cities served by Shanghai Airlines for potentially lower total fares.
How to Book Shanghai Airlines Tickets on Traveloka
Booking your Shanghai Airlines flight on Traveloka is quick and straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Open the Traveloka app or visit www.traveloka.com/en-my on your browser.
- Select Flights from the main menu and choose your trip type (one-way, return or multi-city).
- Enter your departure city (e.g., Kuala Lumpur), destination (e.g., Shanghai), travel dates and the number of passengers.
- Click Search Flights to view available options. Use the filter to select Shanghai Airlines (FM) specifically, or sort results by price, departure time or duration.
- Select your preferred flight and cabin class. Review the fare details, including baggage allowance and cancellation policy.
- Fill in passenger details including full name (as per passport), nationality, passport number and contact information.
- Add optional extras such as travel insurance, airport transfer or hotel accommodation if needed.
- Choose your preferred payment method – credit card, debit card, online banking, Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay or ShopeePay.
- Complete the payment. Your e-ticket and booking confirmation will be sent to your registered email and the Traveloka app instantly.
Manage your booking anytime through the Traveloka app, where you can view your itinerary, add services, or request changes if your plans adjust.