To cater to the diverse needs of its transit and late-night travelers, Shanghai's Pudong Airport recently introduced several new services aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and convenience.

A multi-service rest area boasts nifty sleeping pods at Pudong Airport. [Photo/SAA]

The new measures were announced on June 29 in response to a hefty increase in foreign visitors, largely driven by China's expanding visa-free policies.

The initiative aims to position Shanghai as a preferred global transit hub, offering travelers a more convenient and comfortable airport experience.

In the first half of this year, Shanghai's airports welcomed nearly 2.56 million foreign visitors, representing a 44.7-percent increase year-on-year. Pudong Airport alone accounted for 2.37 million of the arrivals, the highest among China's airports.

Over 1.4 million visitors benefited from the visa-free policies — more than half the total foreign arrivals — and what's more, it was a whopping 228-percent increase on the previous year.

Expanded rest facilities for travelers

Reclining soft sofas offer travelers the chance to chill out at Pudong Airport. [Photo/SAA]

Pudong Airport has established eight free overnight rest areas across its terminals, offering a total of 1,018 resting spots and 228 charging ports.

Additionally, 30 new sleeping pods have been installed near Gate 24 in Terminal 1 and Gate 67 in Terminal 2.

These pods feature reclining sofas, air filtration systems, adjustable lighting and personal comfort items like blankets and slippers. Each pod is thoroughly cleaned after use, with prices set at 35 yuan ($4.88) for 30 minutes, 65 yuan for an hour and 185 yuan for three hours.

While 13 pods in T2 are already operational, the remaining pods are expected to be available by the end of July.

Comprehensive amenities go on offer, from showers to dining

A shower room is bright, clean and ready for use at Pudong Airport. [Photo/SAA]

Recognizing the need for shower facilities, Pudong Airport has opened 11 free 24-hour shower rooms in its terminals. These include nine single and two multifunctional showers, equipped with essentials like hairdryers and toiletries.

Two shower rooms in the T2 arrival area are already open, with others set to launch during the summer travel season.

The airport's convenience stores — including Hudson Market, Lawson and FamilyMart — remain open around the clock, offering hot meals and beverages to travelers. Restaurants throughout the airport adjust their hours according to flight schedules, ensuring all-day dining options.

Enhancing services during flight delays

To manage the high volume of summer flights and potential weather disruptions, Pudong Airport has partnered with 11 airlines to provide Flight Delay Comfort services. Delayed passengers can receive meal vouchers valid at over 100 airport eateries, ranging from local favorites to international chains.

The airport's mini-program now includes the Pu Le GO service — allowing travelers to order from numerous retail and dining outlets with deliveries to various airport locations. Additionally, it offers indoor navigation services to help travelers quickly find the shortest route to their gates, transfer counters, currency exchange points, nursing rooms and other destinations and facilities.