Weining Caohai Airport

Weining Caohai Airport is not merely a standard transport hub, but a true gateway to the skies in one of the most picturesque and high-altitude corners of Guizhou Province. Situated as if on the roof of the world, this air terminal offers travellers a breathtaking introduction to a region where clouds often float below the runway. It serves as a key access point to the famous "Grass Sea" (Caohai) Nature Reserve, allowing tourists to swap the noise of megacities for the tranquillity of pristine nature within minutes of landing.

Key Characteristics

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main distinguishing feature of the Weining Caohai air harbour is its location. Situated at an altitude of over 2,100 metres above sea level, the airport is among China's high-altitude aviation hubs. While this imposes specific requirements on piloting, for passengers, it opens up incredible views of mountain ranges and plateaus even during the descent. The terminal infrastructure is designed with this factor in mind: it features comfortable waiting areas with panoramic glazing.

Another important advantage is compactness and efficiency. Thanks to the small size of the terminal, all procedures — from check-in to boarding — are completed significantly faster than in major hubs. The logistics within the building are intuitive, eliminating the risk of getting lost. The airport is also renowned for its architectural style, which reflects the ethnic motifs of the Yi, Hui, and Miao peoples inhabiting this region, creating a special atmosphere of hospitality from the very first minutes of your stay.

To contact representatives of Weining Caohai Airport (WNJ) and obtain the latest information on flights, services, and regulations, please use the following verified contacts:

• Official Airport Website: Current schedules, news, and airport services are available on its official page within the Guizhou Airport Group portal: www.gzairports.com/wnjc/. Please note that the primary language of the site is Chinese.
• Information Desk Phone: For information regarding flights and airport services, please call: +86-857-6567777.
• Airport Address: Zhongshui Town, Weining County, Bijie, Guizhou, China, 553100. It is recommended to use this address for navigation systems and to show to taxi drivers.
• Email: The airport does not provide a public email address for general enquiries. For urgent communication, it is recommended to use the telephone.
• Social Media: The airport does not have official pages on international social networks. The most reliable and up-to-date information is published on the official website.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, please first contact your airline's counter in the arrivals hall. To contact the airport's Lost & Found service, you may use the general information desk phone number.
• Customer Support Contacts: For issues related to service at the airport, please contact the main information desk number: +86-857-6567777.

Getting to Weining Caohai Airport from the city centre of Biandanshan is straightforward, and travellers have several convenient options available. Depending on your budget, time, and preferences, you can choose between public transport, taxi, or car rental. On average, the journey from the city centre to the airport takes about 30-45 minutes, though this time may vary depending on traffic conditions.

Public Transport is the most economical way to reach the airport. Typically, special shuttle buses run between the city centre and the terminal. It is best to check information regarding their schedule and departure points in advance, for example, at your hotel or on the official airport website. This is an excellent choice for budget travellers and those travelling light. The cost of a bus trip is generally the lowest of all available options.

Taxi or Pre-booked Transfer is the most comfortable and quickest way to reach the terminal. Cars can be found at designated stands in the city, hailed via popular apps in China, or you can book a private transfer in advance. This option is particularly convenient if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with family. The cost of the trip will be significantly higher than the bus, but it ensures door-to-door convenience.

For those who prefer complete freedom of movement, car rental is a good solution. Rental counters can be found both at the airport and in the city of Biandanshan. Having a car will allow you not only to reach the airport in comfort but also to explore the surroundings at your own pace. Please note that for driving in China, foreign nationals may require a special permit or a Chinese driving licence. The airport provides parking facilities where you can leave your car for both short and long periods. It is worth checking the rates on the official airport website.

If your plans have changed or you are looking for alternative routes, it is worth considering other airports located in relative proximity. Among them:

• Liupanshui Yuezhao Airport (LPF) — approximately 69 km away.
• Zhaotong Airport (ZAT) — approximately 77.5 km away.
• Bijie Feixiong Airport (BFJ) — approximately 107.1 km away.

These air harbours may offer more flights or a more convenient schedule for your journey.

Weining Caohai Airport (WNJ) is a small, modern regional air terminal distinguished by its compactness and simple, intuitively understandable structure. It primarily serves domestic flights, making it easy to navigate even for first-time travellers.

Structure and Terminals

The airport consists of one passenger terminal, which serves both departing and arriving flights. The absence of multiple terminals and complex walkways significantly simplifies movement. The building is designed so that all key zones are within walking distance of each other. Since there is only one terminal, you do not need to worry about transfers or finding the correct building.

Layout and Navigation

The interior space of the terminal is organised very logically. Typically, the ground floor houses the check-in counters and the arrivals area with the baggage claim belt. After check-in, passengers proceed to the first floor, where the security checkpoint and boarding gates are located. Signs are in Chinese and English, which helps in orienting yourself easily. Thanks to the airport's small size, getting lost here is practically impossible.

Procedures and Time

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Weining Caohai Airport usually takes little time. Passenger traffic here is not as heavy as in megacities, so queues for check-in and security are generally minimal. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time will be more than sufficient to check in luggage, pass security control, and reach your boarding gate without rushing.

Recommendations

For a comfortable journey through WNJ, simply follow the standard signage. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated, and the entire path from the building entrance to the gate is intuitive. The compactness of the airport is its main advantage, making it one of the most convenient for a calm start and end to your travels in the region.

Weining Caohai Airport (WNJ) is a modern aviation hub with a relatively recent history. Its official opening took place on July 29, 2013. The construction was part of a state programme to develop transport infrastructure in the western regions of China, and the main goal of its creation was to improve accessibility to the Weining Autonomous County and attract tourists to the unique Caohai Nature Reserve.

The design and construction of the airport began in September 2011. Initially, it was designed to handle up to 200,000 passengers and 600 tonnes of cargo per year. The first phase involved the construction of a runway 2,800 metres long, a passenger terminal covering 3,500 square metres, and an apron with four parking stands for aircraft. Since the airport is quite new, it has not yet undergone large-scale renovations but was designed taking into account modern standards of safety and comfort.

One of the most remarkable facts about Weining Caohai Airport is its location. It sits at an altitude of 2,165 metres above sea level, making it one of the highest-altitude airports in Guizhou Province. Its name "Caohai" (草海) translates as "Grass Sea" and is named in honour of the eponymous lake reserve, which is a key wintering site for rare black-necked cranes. Thus, the history of the airport is inextricably linked with the development of eco-tourism in the Biandanshan region.

Weining Caohai Airport (WNJ) is a compact and modern regional aviation hub providing passengers with all essential amenities for a comfortable journey. Despite its size, the airport strives to ensure a pleasant stay for every guest.

In the terminal, you will find several cafes and eateries where you can have a snack before your flight, or enjoy coffee and soft drinks. Small shops are also available, offering necessities, snacks, and local souvenirs. For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, VIP lounges are available where you can relax in a quiet atmosphere.

To stay connected, make use of the free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. The waiting halls are also equipped with charging stations for mobile phones and other gadgets. Regarding financial services, there are ATMs in the terminal. However, please note that currency exchange points may be absent, so it is recommended to exchange money in advance.

The airport caters to all categories of passengers. A medical point is in operation on the premises to provide first aid. For travellers with small children, mother and child rooms are equipped. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with necessary assistance and escort, and the terminal infrastructure is adapted to their needs.

There are no hotels or business centres within the airport grounds. The nearest hotels and conference halls are located in the city of Weining, which can be easily reached by taxi.

When planning a flight through Weining Caohai Airport (WNJ), it is important to consider that this is a small regional hub, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited. Nevertheless, passengers can find a few options to have a snack before departure.

All food outlets are generally concentrated in the main terminal building, primarily in the public area before security control (landside). These may be one or two small cafes or eateries offering simple and filling dishes. After passing security (airside), the choice is usually limited to vending machines with beverages and snacks.

The menu in local establishments is focused on Chinese cuisine. For a full meal, you can find noodles in broth, rice with various toppings, or dumplings. for a quick bite, steamed buns (baozi) or other ready-made snacks are suitable. This is a great opportunity to try authentic local food, albeit in a simplified "airport" format. Prices are generally moderate, but slightly higher than in the city.

Passengers with strict dietary restrictions (vegans, vegetarians, people with gluten intolerance) will find it difficult to find certified dishes. It is recommended to bring food with you to avoid inconvenience. Please note that Halal options are likely unavailable.

The opening hours of catering establishments at Weining Caohai Airport are directly linked to the flight schedule. Usually, they open a few hours before the first departure and close after the last aircraft has left. If you are looking for a full meal, it is best to do so before passing security control, leaving the purchase of drinks or light snacks from machines for the departure zone.

To ensure your journey through Weining Caohai Airport in Biandanshan is as comfortable and stress-free as possible, please consider our advice. These recommendations will help you save time, money, and peace of mind.

Arrival Time at the Airport: Plan to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time will be sufficient to calmly complete all pre-flight formalities: check-in, luggage drop-off, and security control. It is always useful to additionally check the recommendations of your airline.

Check-in and Security: To speed up the process, check in online if the airline provides such a service. Have your passport and boarding pass ready at the airport. Security screening procedures in China can be strict, so remove all electronic devices and liquids from your hand luggage in advance.

Seat Selection: Classic choice: a window seat for beautiful views during take-off and landing, or an aisle seat for more legroom and the ability to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. For short flights, the view from the window may be more interesting; for long ones, the convenience of the aisle is often a priority.

Hand Luggage: Ensure your hand luggage complies with the airline's weight and size regulations. Be sure to pack all valuables, documents, medicines, and power banks in it. Remember that carrying liquids is limited to containers up to 100 ml, and sharp objects are prohibited. In China, rules regarding lighters and matches are particularly strict — their carriage in both hand luggage and checked luggage is typically completely prohibited.

For Transfer Passengers: If you have a connecting flight at Weining Caohai Airport, follow the "Transfer" signs. Clarify in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. Most often with domestic transfers, luggage is transferred automatically, but you will likely have to pass security control again.

Customs Control: This point is relevant for international flights. Fill out a customs declaration if necessary, and be ready to present it to a customs officer. If you are unsure whether an item needs to be declared, it is better to clarify this in advance to avoid misunderstandings.

Saving Time and Money: Bring an empty reusable bottle and fill it with water at drinking fountains after the security zone. Light snacks from home will help save on expensive food at the airport. A pre-booked transfer to the city often works out cheaper than a taxi hailed on the spot.

In Case of Flight Delay: First, contact your airline's representative counter to find out the reason and estimated departure time. Depending on the length of the delay, the airline is obliged to provide passengers with drinks, meals, and for long waits, hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts if you plan to claim compensation from an insurance company.