Wendy Zhang/ Shanghai Daily news

Following the price wars of domestic airlines, overseas air-carriers announced price reductions recently, the Shanghai Morning Post reported today.
Australian Airlines announced yesterday three direct flights a week from Shanghai to Sydney and then to Melbourne as of December 2. The initial flight will cost only 4,888 yuan (US$589), with free round-trip air-tickets to Lisbon or the Gold Coast.
Also yesterday, United Airlines announced non-stop direct flights from Shanghai to Chicago as of November 1 and during the one-month promotional period, all Chinese passengers can enjoy 6,280-yuan round-trip air-tickets in economy class in addition to several discount coupons for entertainment places in Chicago.
Previously, a one-way airfare from Shanghai to Chicago was more than 4,000 yuan, with the round-trip fare over 7,000 yuan.
However, the preferential pricing policies will exclude peak travel period in mid December when many foreigners fly back to their hometown to celebrate Christmas with their families.
Air-tickets in economy class from Shanghai to Vancouver from December 17 last year through January 26 were already sold out before December 17 last year, with airfares soaring from Shanghai to the United States and Australia.
Passengers should book air-tickets in advance if they want to travel by mid December.