Shanghai’s two major airports have temporarily halted operations as the area braces for strong winds and heavy rain, with Typhoon Bebinca drawing near.
Two airports in Shanghai, Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) have canceled all flights due to the typhoon on September 15, 2024. The decision followed a red alert issued by the China Meteorological Administration, which warned of winds reaching 151 kilometers per hour (approximately 94 miles per hour) as well as intense rainfall. The storm is expected to impact the area between September 15 and 17, with a high risk of severe flooding.
Shanghai-based China Eastern Airlines has announced the cancellation of two key domestic flights due to the impact of a typhoon. The airline confirmed that Flight MU6581, which was scheduled to depart from Shanghai’s Pudong International Airport (PVG) to Hefei (HFE) on September 15, and its return leg, Flight MU6582, set for September 16, have both been canceled as a safety precaution. In response to the severe weather forecast, the carrier has also issued an official advisory for passengers affected by the storm, offering support and alternative travel arrangements.
The typhoon is expected to impact hundreds of flight schedules, according to authorities.
The powerful typhoon, which has triggered weather warnings across the region, has already caused significant disruptions, with more likely to follow as it makes landfall. In addition to flight cancellations, Shanghai Railway Station has suspended some services to ensure passenger safety. Trains to and from the city have also been halted.
Shanghai authorities cautioned that Typhoon Bebinca could be the most powerful tropical cyclone to strike Shanghai in over seven decades, potentially surpassing any storm since 1949.