Flights ferrying athletes and officials to this week's Special Olympics will be given priority at Shanghai's two airports as the city braces itself for a smooth handling of the expected deluge.

Designated flights will be able to land and take off ahead of others, with two neighboring airports, Hangzhou Xiaoshan and Nanjing Lukou, ready for any overspill in the event of bad weather.

With over 10,000 athletes, coaches and 20,000 accompanying personnel from more than 170 countries and regions heading to the city for the October 2-11 sporting event, Shanghai Airport Authority (SAA) is racing to offer a world-class service and bolster China's public image.

It has employed almost 4,000 volunteers, 100 of whom will offer foreign-language services at the four airports, banned balloons and other aviation vehicles from the vicinity for the safety of all flights, and installed special "green passageways" so delegation members can enjoy speedy check-in, baggage-reclaim and shuttle-bus services.

"The airport here is very beautiful, modern and clean. Besides, we don't have to wait for a long time because of the priority services provided here," said Phyllis Gilliland, head coach of Athletics Team Ireland, which arrived at Shanghai Pudong International Airport on September 28.

Shanghai's Pudong and Hongqiao airports have also adapted their security checks and set up special lounges to ease the strain on incoming athletes.

Barrier-free access is another area that has seen major surgery, with new user-friendly elevators and lowered information desks introduced.

Pudong Airport recently welcomed 50 new restrooms complete with armrests and instructions for people with physical disabilities.