If your parents are visiting from Shanghai, there are several routes you might consider.1)AA and UA both have daliy Non-stop flihgts between Shanghai PVG-ORD(Chicago,IL), and you get the same day connection to any of the eastcoast big cities. AirChina flies from Beijing to JFK, this route is also feasiable. 2)Other US airlines ,like Northwest also provides services between Shanghai and US, but may need a layover in NRT(Japan).
You can search website to find Chinese travel agents in NYC, which may offer the best price available. September is a slow month for air travel, you might be able to get cheap ticket if you book early