MU seating, departure and arrival questions
 

I'm going to be making my first trip to Shanghai in April and will be flying out of LAX on MU. I was told all seats are assigned at check-in and was wondering if anybody could recommend how early it is best to arrive in order get a good choice of seats, and what seats are preferable in the A346 if flying economy.

I would also appreciate it if a frequent flyer to Shanghai could let me know about how long it usually takes to get through immigration, health, etc. upon arriving in PVG (my arrival time is 6.15 pm).


Thanks!

Welcome to FT, velivolus. Although you are asking for seating information on MU, I believe the folks who frequent the FT China Forum will be helpful, particularly, with your request re: Shanghai.
Good luck..
Obscure2k
TravelBuzz Moderator

eeekk....MU across the Pacific! Why oh why?? Flew once ex-PVG, and i'm in no hurry to repeat the experience.

Snag an exit row seat (i think it was Row 54). 32" all accross, and no need to worry about IFE boxes taking up precious legroom - there isn't any IFE!

If you are easily bored, bring something to keep you occupied. If you are not a fan of 'funky' chinese food, bring your own snacks.

As for arrival procedures, i've never arrived in Shanghai internationally at that time...so i'm sure someone else will help you on that.

Enjoy...

I did LAX-PVG a few times on MU and I usually got there three hours before in order to get an aisle seat. I can't get any decent seats as I am not a premier member of MU but aisle seats are bearable. Clearing customs usually is pretty fast and I usually spend less then 45 min from landing to walk out of the airport.

Never flew China Eastern LAX-PVG, but being a nonstop it should be the fastest route. UA LAX-PVG routes thru SFO so add on at least 3 more hours.
Figure 20 minutes/no baggage 40-45 minutes/with baggage to get thru clearing the PVG terminal.