Shanghai

Is Shanghai Pudong Airport turbulent?

Shanghai's location on the East China Sea coast exposes it to typhoons tracking north from the Pacific and Philippine Sea. The city experienced its strongest typhoon in 75 years in 2024 when Typhoon Bebinca made direct landfall. Outside of typhoon season, the Yangtze River Delta's humid climate produces regular summer thunderstorms that cause moderate turbulence.

• Shanghai averages 2-3 typhoon impacts per year
• Typhoon Bebinca (2024) was the strongest since 1949
• Summer monsoon brings frequent afternoon thunderstorms

What was Typhoon Bebinca's impact on Shanghai?

Typhoon Bebinca struck Shanghai in September 2024 with winds reaching 120 km/h, making it the most powerful storm to hit the city in over seven decades. Hundreds of flights were cancelled at both Pudong and Hongqiao airports. The storm demonstrated that Shanghai, despite being farther north than traditional typhoon zones, remains vulnerable to powerful tropical systems.

When is the best time to fly from Shanghai?

Late autumn (October-November) and spring (March-April) offer the most stable flying conditions. Typhoon risk peaks from July through September, with August being the highest risk month. Winter can bring occasional fog delays but generally provides smooth flying weather once airborne.