Shanghai Airlines
China · SHANGHAI AIR · Active
Airline Identity
History
Shanghai Airlines was founded on 30 December 1985 as one of China's earliest airlines backed by municipal and local enterprise investment rather than the central government, and it grew over the following two decades into a major competitor on Shanghai's domestic and regional international routes. The carrier listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange in 2002, began international operations in 1997, and joined Star Alliance in 2007 as its 19th member — briefly making it mainland China's only Star Alliance carrier. That independence ended when China Eastern Airlines announced a merger with Shanghai Airlines on 11 June 2009, a consolidation completed in February 2010 that was driven by Beijing's push to reduce competition between the two Shanghai-based carriers and strengthen their combined position against Air China and China Southern. As part of the integration, Shanghai Airlines left Star Alliance and has operated since 2011 as a SkyTeam affiliate through its parent's membership. Today it survives as a distinct, wholly owned brand and operating subsidiary of China Eastern Airlines rather than as an independent carrier.
Current Operations
Now operating as a China Eastern subsidiary, Shanghai Airlines flies an all-Boeing fleet built around 737 narrowbodies and 787-9 Dreamliners, serving more than 140 domestic and international destinations from its dual hubs at Shanghai Pudong and Shanghai Hongqiao airports. Its international network reaches Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia, with newer long-haul additions such as Budapest, Marseille, and Penang added in recent years as China Eastern has used the brand to extend its reach. The airline retains its own operating certificate, livery, and frequent-flyer integration with China Eastern, functioning as a distinct commercial brand within the wider group. It participates in SkyTeam benefits and codeshares through its parent's membership rather than holding independent alliance status.
Last verified 2026-08-22· Source: airline public disclosures, company press releases & aviation-industry reporting.