Beihai Fucheng Airport

Fucheng (Beihai) Airport is not merely a transport hub, but your gateway to the azure waters of the South China Sea in the coastal city of Beihai. Located in the south of China, it serves as a starting point for travellers seeking a relaxed beach holiday and wishing to explore the unique culture of Guangxi province. Modern and relatively small, this airport warmly welcomes guests arriving for the sun and sea. Its thoughtful organisation makes it convenient and easy to navigate, allowing you to avoid the hustle and bustle typical of major aviation hubs.

One of the main features of Fucheng Airport is its efficient organisation. Despite steady growth in passenger traffic, it remains sufficiently compact, making security checks and terminal navigation quick and intuitive. This is particularly valuable for tourists eager to start their holiday without unnecessary stress. The airport is well connected to the city: the centre of Beihai and key resort areas can be easily reached by a special shuttle bus or taxi, with the journey taking approximately 30-40 minutes.

The terminal is equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable wait. Passengers have access to several cafes and restaurants offering both local cuisine and more familiar international options. There are also shops selling souvenirs and daily necessities, currency exchange counters, and information desks. The airport plays a key role in the region's tourism infrastructure, providing easy access to the famous Silver Beach and other attractions.

For the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations at Fucheng (Beihai) Airport, it is recommended to use official communication channels. Below are the main contact details:

• Official Website: http://www.bhairport.com.cn/ (website in Chinese)
• Inquiry Service Phone: +86 0779-8512345
• Airport Address: Fucheng Town, Yinhai District, Beihai, Guangxi, China
• Email: An official email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Social Media: The airport has a presence on the Chinese social network WeChat. The QR code for access can be found on the official website.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the tracing service at: +86 0779-8512219.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information and assistance, please use the main airport inquiry phone number.

Please note that for calls from outside China, you must dial the international code (+86) followed by the city code, and communication with staff will most likely be conducted in Chinese.

There are several ways to reach Fucheng Airport, located approximately 24 kilometres from the city centre of Beihai. The choice depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and comfort preferences. The journey typically takes between 30 to 50 minutes depending on the mode of transport and traffic conditions.

Public Transport is the most economical option. The primary means of connection between the city and the airport is the special Airport Shuttle Bus. It follows several routes, connecting the airport with key points in the city, including the railway station and major hotels. This is a convenient and affordable method, ideal for tourists with light luggage. The shuttle journey takes about 50 minutes. There is currently no direct metro or train connection to the airport.

Taxi or Transfer is the most comfortable and fastest way to get to the airport. Cars can be found at designated stands in the city or ordered via taxi-hailing apps popular in China, such as DiDi. The trip takes about 30-40 minutes, and the cost is approximately 60-100 RMB. It is recommended to ensure the driver turns on the meter or to agree on the price in advance. You can also book a private transfer, which is particularly convenient for large groups or families with children.

Car Rental offers maximum freedom of movement, especially if you plan to explore not only the city but also its surroundings. Car rental counters are located in the arrivals terminal. However, please note that foreign tourists usually require a local driving licence to drive in China. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, there is convenient parking with zones for short-term and long-term stays.

Fucheng Airport (BHY) in Beihai is a modern and compact aviation hub characterised by a structure that is convenient and easy for passengers to understand. Its main advantage is the presence of a single passenger terminal serving both domestic and international flights. This significantly simplifies navigation and eliminates the need to travel between different buildings.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Generally, it is organised according to a classic two-level principle:

• Departure Zone is located on the upper floor. Here you will find check-in counters, baggage drop-off points, customs and passport control zones, as well as pre-flight security screening. After completing all formalities, passengers enter the secure area with boarding gates, shops, and cafes.
• Arrival Zone is located on the lower (ground) floor. Passengers arrive here after landing. This area houses baggage claim carousels, border control counters for international flights, and the exit to the public hall, where you can find taxis, car rental counters, or meet hotel representatives.

Since there is only one terminal, there are no complex transfers involved. All services and zones are within a single building, making movement quick and convenient. Signs in the airport are in Chinese and English, helping foreign tourists orient themselves easily. All necessary infrastructure, including information desks, currency exchange points, and a medical centre, is readily accessible.

Regarding the time required to complete procedures, Fucheng Airport is usually not overcrowded. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2.5–3 hours. This time is generally sufficient for a calm check-in and security screening process, even during periods of high demand. The main tip for navigation is to follow the signs and check your flight information on the electronic boards located throughout the terminal.

The history of aviation in the city of Beihai is closely linked to its development as a tourist hub. The current Fucheng Airport (BHY) was built from scratch and opened for operation in March 1987. It was intended to replace the old Beihai Xiguan Airport, which was located too close to the city and had limited expansion capabilities.

A key moment in the airport's history was the large-scale modernisation carried out in the mid-2000s. The expansion project, completed in 2007, included the construction of a new, more spacious passenger terminal and the extension of the runway to 3,200 metres. This allowed the airport to accommodate larger aircraft types, including the Boeing 747, and significantly increase its capacity, preparing for the growing tourist flow.

The main achievement of Fucheng Airport is its decisive role in transforming Beihai into one of the popular seaside resorts in China. It has become the primary transport hub for travellers heading to the picturesque Weizhou Island and other local attractions. Although the airport may not boast world records, its steady growth in passenger traffic over many years is the best indicator of its success and importance to the region.

Interestingly, the decision to build the new airport away from the city was strategic and forward-looking. This not only ensured flight safety and opportunities for further expansion but also freed up valuable land within the city limits for development. Today, Fucheng Airport continues to play an important role in the transport system of southern China, serving both domestic and international flights.

Fucheng Airport (BHY) in the city of Beihai provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait before departure. In the terminal, you will find several cafes and restaurants where you can have a snack or a full meal, trying both local dishes and more familiar international options. There are also shops where you can purchase souvenirs, travel goods, and gifts for loved ones to remember your trip to China.

For passengers who value enhanced comfort, VIP lounges are available, offering a cosy atmosphere, beverages, and snacks. The general waiting areas are also convenient: free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for gadgets ensure you stay connected. If you need to handle financial matters, ATMs and currency exchange points are at your disposal.

The airport cares about the well-being of all travellers. In case of need, you can visit the medical point for first aid. For passengers with small children, mother and child rooms are equipped where you can feed and change your baby in a quiet environment. Furthermore, conditions have been created for the comfortable movement of passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, special restrooms, and the option to request staff assistance.

If you have a long layover or an early flight, several hotels of various price categories are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. For business travellers, business centre services or the rental of small conference rooms for meetings may be available, although it is better to verify this information in advance directly at the airport.

Fucheng Airport (BHY) in Beihai offers passengers several options for a snack or a full meal before departure. Although the selection here is not as extensive as in major international hubs in China, you certainly won't go hungry. Most establishments are concentrated in the main terminal building.

In the public area (before security control), there are usually several cafes operating where you can have coffee with fresh pastries or order light snacks. This is a convenient option if you are seeing someone off or have arrived at the airport with plenty of time to spare. Here, you can typically find a small restaurant offering Chinese cuisine.

After passing security, in the "clean" departure zone, the choice becomes more focused on quick formats. For a quick bite, noodle shops are excellent, where you can order a bowl of hot noodle soup, or small snack bars. For a more substantial lunch, it is worth looking for a restaurant specialising in the local cuisine of Guangxi province. We recommend trying fresh seafood dishes or traditional rice noodles — this is a wonderful opportunity to experience the region's gastronomy before flying out.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding certified Halal, vegan, or gluten-free establishments may be challenging. However, in Chinese restaurants, you can always ask for dishes prepared with vegetables without the addition of meat. The price range at the airport is, as expected, higher than in the city, but remains acceptable. Most cafes and restaurants operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the departure of the last aircraft.

To ensure your journey through Fucheng Airport goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these proven tips. Planning ahead will help save time, reduce stress, and even save money, allowing you to focus on the pleasant experiences of your trip to Beihai.

Arrival Time: For domestic flights within China, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, it is better to allow more time — about 2.5–3 hours. This gives you a sufficient buffer for queues at check-in and security.

Check-in and Security: The fastest way to check in is online via your airline's website. This allows you to go straight to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security zone. Prepare for security control in advance: remove laptops and other large electronics from your bags, and ensure all liquids (up to 100 ml each) are packed in a transparent bag.

Seat Selection: If you want to enjoy the views, choose a window seat. If you need quick access to the aisle and extra legroom, an aisle seat is for you. If it is important for you to disembark among the first, book seats in the front part of the cabin.

Hand Luggage: Be sure to pack your most valuable items in your hand luggage: documents, money, medication, a portable charger, and fragile electronics. Remember the restrictions on carrying liquids. Sharp objects, weapons, explosives, and flammable substances are strictly prohibited.

Transfer Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, check at registration whether your luggage will be transferred automatically to the final destination or if you need to collect and re-check it. At the airport, follow the "Transfer/Connecting flights" signs and allow at least 1.5–2 hours between flights.

Customs Control: When entering or leaving the country, you may need to pass customs control. Familiarise yourself with China's customs regulations in advance, especially regarding the import and export of currency, food items, and expensive purchases. Honestly declare all goods subject to declaration to avoid fines.

Saving Time and Money: To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it after passing security. Prices for food and drinks at airports are traditionally high, so having a light snack with you is a good idea. Research in advance how to get from the airport to the city — public transport or a pre-booked transfer often costs less than a taxi.

Flight Delays: In case of a flight delay, remain calm. Monitor information on departure boards and in your airline's app. Check with the carrier's representative if you are entitled to vouchers for food or drinks. Having a good book, downloaded films, and a charged power bank will help pass the time. Having travel insurance may also cover unforeseen expenses.