San Diego (SAN) → Shanghai (PVG)

10,589 km
13h 44m flight
From $1320
Shanghai destination photo

About San Diego to Shanghai Flights

Discover the best flights from San Diego to Shanghai, covering 10,589 km in approximately 13h 44m. San Diego (SAN) to Shanghai (PVG) is one of the major long-haul routes connecting United States and China. With 7 major airlines operating this route, travelers have plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, our comprehensive guide helps you find the best deals, understand seasonal price variations, and choose the right airline for your journey from San Diego to Shanghai.

12-Month Price History

Flight prices from San Diego to Shanghai vary significantly throughout the year. February typically offers the best deals with average prices around $1848, while July sees the highest prices, averaging $3149. Savvy travelers can save up to 41% by choosing their travel dates wisely.

Best Time to Fly

Cheapest Month

February

Save up to 40% on average

Most Expensive

July

Peak season pricing

Book in Advance

62 days

For best prices

Booking Tips

For the best prices on San Diego to Shanghai flights, we recommend booking 134 days in advance. International flights typically see price increases as the departure date approaches, so early booking is advisable. Tuesday and Wednesday departures often offer the lowest fares, while Friday and Sunday flights tend to be more expensive due to business and leisure travel demand. Consider flying early morning or late evening for additional savings, as these off-peak times usually have lower demand.

Airlines Serving This Route

China Southern Airlines

CZ

Economy

$3160

Business

$13440

First

$19540

American Airlines

AA

Economy

$3340

Business

$11490

First

$21240

United Airlines

UA

Economy

$3530

Business

$12810

First

$21490

Shanghai Airlines

FM

Economy

$3600

Business

$14300

First

$21540

China Eastern Airlines

MU

Economy

$3710

Business

$10880

First

$18120

Air China

CA

Economy

$3880

Business

$12100

First

$18420

Delta Air Lines

DL

Economy

$3940

Business

$13090

First

$18570

Prices shown are estimates based on historical data. Actual prices may vary based on dates, availability, and current promotions.

Alternative Flight Options

Shanghai destination photo

Los AngelesShanghai

Los Angeles International (LAX) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG)

Distance: 10,415 km

Average price: $2161

View this route →
Shanghai destination photo

TijuanaShanghai

Tijuana International (TIJ) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG)

Distance: 10,619 km

Average price: $2201

View this route →
Hangzhou destination photo

San DiegoHangzhou

San Diego International (SAN) to Hangzhou Xiaoshan International (HGH)

Distance: 10,754 km

Average price: $2227

View this route →
Shanghai destination photo

San DiegoShanghai

San Diego International (SAN) to Shanghai Hongqiao International (SHA)

Distance: 10,617 km

Average price: $2200

View this route →

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the flight from San Diego to Shanghai?

The flight time from San Diego (SAN) to Shanghai (PVG) is approximately 13 hours and 44 minutes. This duration is for direct flights and may vary depending on aircraft type, weather conditions, and air traffic.

What is the distance between San Diego and Shanghai?

The aerial distance between San Diego and Shanghai is 10,589 kilometers (6,580 miles). This is the straight-line distance, which is used to calculate flight times.

Which airlines fly from San Diego to Shanghai?

Several airlines operate flights between San Diego and Shanghai, including Air China, China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines and 4 more airlines. Most flights on this route include one or more stops.

What is the cheapest month to fly from San Diego to Shanghai?

Based on historical data, February typically offers the lowest airfares for flights from San Diego to Shanghai. However, prices can vary based on holidays, events, and airline promotions. We recommend checking our price calendar for the most up-to-date information.

How far in advance should I book my flight to Shanghai?

For the best prices on San Diego to Shanghai flights, we recommend booking 119 days in advance. International flights generally require earlier booking than domestic routes.

Do I need a visa to travel from San Diego to Shanghai?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Citizens of United States traveling to China should check the latest visa requirements. Visit our partner site visarequirements.io for detailed visa information.

What is the time difference between San Diego and Shanghai?

San Diego operates on America/Los_Angeles time zone, while Shanghai is in the Asia/Shanghai time zone. For current time differences and to plan your schedule, visit our partner site timezig.com for accurate timezone conversions.