Direct (nonstop) flights from San Francisco to Shanghai
2 airlines fly nonstop from San Francisco International (SFO) to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). It's 6,150 miles (9,897 km), about 13h 35m in the air. Operated by China Eastern Airlines, United Airlines.
China Eastern Airlines
United Airlines
Route data last updated: May 28, 2026
Airlines with non-stop flights
MU
China Eastern Airlines
UA
United Airlines
Alternative Routes
Other ways to fly from San Francisco to Shanghai with one stop · direct emits 940 kg CO₂ per passenger
Looking for the return flight?
PVG → SFO: Flights from Shanghai to San FranciscoOther direct flights from San Francisco
Direct flights from Shanghai (PVG)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the direct flight from San Francisco to Shanghai?
A nonstop flight from San Francisco (SFO) to Shanghai (PVG) takes approximately 13 hours and 35 minutes. The distance is 6,150 miles (9,897 km).
Which airlines fly nonstop from San Francisco to Shanghai?
2 airlines: China Eastern Airlines, United Airlines.
Is there a nonstop flight from San Francisco to Shanghai?
Yes. 2 airlines: China Eastern Airlines, United Airlines.
How far is San Francisco from Shanghai?
The flight distance from San Francisco to Shanghai is 6,150 miles (9,897 km), measured as the great-circle (shortest air) distance. That's roughly the same distance as London to Tokyo.
What is the time difference between San Francisco and Shanghai?
Shanghai is 15 hours ahead of San Francisco. (America/Los_Angeles vs Asia/Shanghai.)
Will I experience jet lag flying from San Francisco to Shanghai?
Probably — 15-hour time difference means significant jet lag. Expect about 1 day of adjustment per hour of shift. Flying eastward is generally harder to adjust to.
What type of aircraft flies from San Francisco to Shanghai?
At 13h 35m, this route typically uses wide-body aircraft — Boeing 777, 787, or Airbus A330/A350. Varies by airline.
Do I need a visa to travel from USA to China?
Depends on your passport. Check with the China embassy or an official visa portal before booking — requirements change.
What is the carbon footprint of a flight from San Francisco to Shanghai?
Roughly 940 kg CO2 per passenger one-way. That's about the same as driving 4,700 km.
Is the return flight from Shanghai to San Francisco also nonstop?
Yes — nonstop flights run both ways. Flight time may differ slightly due to wind patterns.
When is the cheapest time to fly from San Francisco to Shanghai?
Midweek flights (Tue/Wed) outside holiday peaks are usually cheapest. For long-haul, booking 2-3 months out tends to help. Use "Check Prices" above to compare.
How early should I arrive at San Francisco International for this flight?
3 hours before departure for international flights. You need time for check-in, security, and immigration.