Flights from Shanghai to Beijing are about to get more expensive
Photograph: Leio McLaren via Unsplash
Shanghai-Beijing commuters better get ready for a price hike. The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) is set to loosen its pricing rules on China's air travel market this week and Air China and China Eastern airlines have already announced a 10 percent fare increase on flights between Shanghai and Beijing, according to Caixin Global.
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Fares are jumping from about 1,240RMB to 1,360RMB, which isn't bank-breaking for many fliers, but Air China and China Eastern, two of China's largest airlines, will no doubt benefit since air traffic between Shanghai and Beijing is the busiest in China.
Routes reports that the price deregulation by the CAAC is meant to strengthen local carriers and give them more room to grow, while still capping price hikes at no more than 10 percent per travel season. The fare deregulation applies to 300 flights in total.
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If you’re thinking of taking the trains instead, you’re all out of luck. Because the country has also deregulated train fares, allowing prices to fluctuate with demand. While it only affects high-speed railways, the Shanghai-Beijing route is among those affected.
Thankfully, we have a range of alternatives for your next trip out of Shanghai, or if you fancy staying in the city, put the money into better use with a good staycation.