Cheap Flights from Shanghai to Almaty — $211

Shanghai is served mainly by two airports with different roles. Pudong International (PVG) is the city’s primary international hub, handling most long-haul and premium carriers as well as major Chinese airlines; it’s generally perceived as pricier but offers a broad route network. Pudong sits about 30–40 km east of downtown; express maglev or metro lines typically take 30–45 minutes, taxis about 40–60 minutes depending on traffic, with fares varying by service level. Hongqiao (SHA) functions more as a domestic and regional airport, favored by budget and business travelers on short-haul routes. Located roughly 10–15 km west of the centre, Hongqiao links to the city via metro and airport express in roughly 15–25 minutes, while taxi trips are shorter. Pros: PVG provides greater international connectivity and facilities; Hongqiao is faster for downtown access and transfers to intercity rail. Cons: PVG can mean longer transfers and higher fares, while Hongqiao has fewer long-haul options.

More than 9 airlines operate flights from Shanghai to Almaty, including Air Astana, China Eastern Airlines, AirAsia X, Air China, China Southern Airlines, SCAT, Qatar Airways, Spring Airlines, and Emirates. This is a popular route, so passengers can choose tickets based on budget and preferences. Ticket prices start from $211, and our service lets you instantly compare all options. The variety of offers simplifies planning: you can choose budget fares or more comfortable options with baggage included or extra services. We help you find the best deals so your trip is cost-efficient.

Almaty International Airport (ALA) is Kazakhstan’s primary international gateway and typically functions as the country’s main full‑service hub, handling a mix of flag carrier, regional and some low‑cost flights—Air Astana and SCAT Airlines are commonly present. Located about 15–20 km southeast of the city center, transfer times by road are usually 25–40 minutes depending on traffic; taxis and ride‑hailing services are the quickest option and can be mid‑priced compared with local wages, while public buses and minivans offer cheaper but slower journeys. The airport has a compact main terminal with basic lounges and shops: it can be convenient for international connections but may feel busy during peak periods, and ground transport choices can be limited late at night.

The cost of a one-way flight from Shanghai to Almaty ranges from $119 (November 2026) to $431 (July 2027). On average, the ticket price is about $247–$262.