MU flight from TPE to HKG via Shanghai questions

[cardiology]

Looking at using QFF points to redeem a few MU (China Easten airlines) economy tickets for my family travel (one way) from TPE to HK via Shanghai (at 14,000 points per person). Just a few quick questions:
1. Will I be able to use the China Airline lounge at T2 in TPE as a Qantas Platinum member? Bringing one guest in?
2. At Shanghai Pudong international, I think I could use the China Eastern First lounge with 1 guest, am I correct?
3. Will the baggage check through from TPE directly to HKG?
4. Is the baggage allowance 2x23Kg each or on 1x23Kg as I read different info from the airline's official website and the other unofficial websites.

Stopping over in China is good as we might be able to do some shopping.

Many thanks.

 

[MEL_Traveller]

Couple of things... I would not recommend this itineray!

Transfering via China should be avoided if possible due to the potential for lengthy delays. What is really only a 90 minute flight (TPE-HKG) will be a minimum of 7 hours allowing for two hours to transfer in PVG. This could be much, much longer (closer to 9 hours, maybe even more) allowing for weather or ATC delays on the PVG-HKG route. TPE-HKG you can pick up for $150 pretty readily.

Bags might be through checked. But they also might not. If they aren't you'd need to enter China (transit without visa), check in, then head back through security and departure immigration. TWOV could take up to an hour. Exit immigration can take up to 40 minutes.

However, the big issue... unless you have a visa, or can otherwise enter China without a visa, you may not be granted TWOV with an entry permit to leave the terminal (this includes leaving the terminal to collect your bags).

If you have bags you need to collect this will be in your favour, but even then, it is no guarantee. You might need to arrange an escort by the airline. And possibly not all your family will be allowed in.

If your bags have been through checked, it is almost certain you'll be denied entry into China for a short layover, unless you are there overnight and can show hotel accommodation.

Basically... if this is a day trip TPE-PVG-HKG there is a world of potential pain ranging from delayed flights to denied entry under TWOV. If you have a visa (or Chinese passport) you will be ok. But also be aware that if you have a long day out planned and you need to check your bags, checkin may not open until three hours prior to your onward flight.

 

[cardiology]

Thanks for letting me know.