Chaoyang Airport

Chaoyang Airport is not merely a transport hub, but an aerial gateway to a world of ancient legends and paleontological discoveries. Located in Liaoning Province, this cosy air haven welcomes travellers with a tranquil atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the hustle and bustle of megacities. Here begins your introduction to a city where the history of the earth literally lies beneath your feet, as Chaoyang is renowned worldwide for its unique finds of Mesozoic era fossils.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of the airport is its exceptional compactness and convenience. Thanks to the low passenger traffic, all pre-flight procedures here are completed as quickly as possible, without the queues and stress typical of large hubs. The terminal is designed so that the journey from the entrance to the boarding gate takes mere minutes, which is particularly appreciated by business travellers and tourists with children.

Another important feature is its strategic location. The airport is located just a few kilometres from the city centre, allowing you to reach your hotel or business meeting in literally 10–15 minutes by taxi. This makes it an ideal starting point for those flying in to visit the famous Fossil Geological Park or the region's Buddhist shrines.

Below is the essential contact information for Chaoyang Airport (CHG). Please note that details for regional airports may change, and it is recommended to verify their validity through your airline before travelling whenever possible.

• Official Website: Generally, small regional airports in China do not have a separate website for passengers. The most accurate flight information is best checked on your airline's website.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +86 421 292 6127. This is the main number for general airport inquiries.
• Address: Chaoyang Airport, Shuangta District, Chaoyang, Liaoning, China.
• Email: An official public email address for general queries is usually not provided. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you should contact the representative of the airline you flew with directly. Airline counters are located in the arrival hall.
• Passenger Support: For assistance and consultations, you can approach the information desk located in the main terminal of the airport.

Getting to Chaoyang Airport from the city of Chaoyang is quite simple, as it is located relatively close to the centre. Travellers can choose the most suitable mode of transport depending on their budget, time, and personal preferences. On average, the trip from the city centre takes from 20 to 40 minutes, but it is always worth allowing extra time in case of traffic congestion.

Public Transport

The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is to use the special shuttle buses. They operate on specific routes, connecting the airport with key points in the city, including major hotels and bus stations. This is a convenient and economical option, however, it is worth checking the schedule and route in advance. There is no direct metro or train connection to the airport, so if travelling from the railway station, a transfer to a bus or taxi will be required.

Taxi and Transfer

A trip by taxi is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach the airport. A car can be ordered via an app or hailed on the street. It is recommended to use official taxi services and ensure the driver turns on the meter to avoid overcharging. For greater convenience, especially if you are travelling with large luggage or a group, you can pre-book a private transfer. In this case, the driver will meet you at the designated place with a name sign, and the cost of the trip will be fixed.

Car Rental and Parking

For those who value independence and plan to explore not only the city but also its surroundings, renting a car is a good solution. In China, specific requirements may apply to foreign drivers, so it is worth clarifying rental conditions in advance. Directly at Chaoyang Airport, parking is provided where you can leave your car for both short and long terms, which is convenient for those arriving in their own vehicle.

If your plans allow for flexibility, it is worth considering other air harbours in the region. Among the nearest airports are Jinzhou Airport (about 97 km), Chifeng Airport (148 km), and Yingkou Lanqi (196 km).

Chaoyang Airport (CHG) represents a compact and modern aviation hub that primarily serves domestic flights. Its main advantage for travellers is its simple and clear structure, consisting of one passenger terminal. This eliminates the need to search for the right exit for a long time or move between different buildings, making your journey calmer and more predictable.

All airport infrastructure is located in one building, which significantly simplifies navigation. The terminal layout is logical and intuitive: departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. Immediately after entering the terminal, you find yourself in a general hall with check-in counters and essential services. After check-in, passengers proceed to the second level, where the security checkpoint and boarding gates are located. The arrival zone is situated on the ground floor and includes baggage claim belts and the exit to the city.

Since there is only one terminal at the airport, there is no need for transfers between them. All gates are within walking distance of each other after passing security control. Despite its modest size, the terminal offers a basic set of amenities necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight, including small cafes and shops.

One of the key advantages of a small airport is the rapid completion of all formalities. Check-in and security screening procedures at Chaoyang Airport usually take significantly less time than in major international hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure to check in luggage and pass all control stages without rushing. Orienting yourself in the terminal is easy thanks to clear signs in Chinese and English, so even if you are here for the first time, you will find your way without difficulty.

Chaoyang Airport (CHG) is not just a modern transport hub, but a place with a rich and multi-layered history. Its journey began long before the era of mass air travel, and today it successfully combines the functions of a civil and military airfield, making it a unique facility in Liaoning Province.

The history of the airport dates back to 1933, when it was built as a military airfield. After World War II, the facility became an important base for the Air Force of the People's Liberation Army of China. The first attempts to establish civil aviation connections were made in 1960, however, for many years flights were irregular and suspended several times, causing the airport to function primarily as a military facility for a long time.

The key moment that turned the old airfield into a modern civil airport was a large-scale reconstruction that began in 2007. During the modernisation, the runway was significantly lengthened and strengthened, and a new terminal was built, equipped with modern equipment for servicing passengers and aircraft. The grand opening of the renovated airport took place on September 26, 2008, marking a new era in the development of air transport in the region.

One of the interesting facts is precisely this transformation: from a small military airfield of the 1930s, it turned into the full-fledged aerial gates of the city. Today, Chaoyang Airport is an important regional hub connecting the city with the country's largest metropolises. Its history is a vivid example of how a historical facility can be successfully transformed into modern civil infrastructure, playing a key role in economic and tourism development.

Chaoyang Airport (CHG) offers passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal complex possesses a modern and well-thought-out infrastructure, oriented towards domestic flights within China.

The terminal features several cafes and eateries where you can have a snack before departure, as well as small shops with travel essentials, press, and souvenirs. A spacious and clean waiting area is equipped for relaxation. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and there are charging stations for mobile devices for passenger convenience.

For business class passengers and airline loyalty programme members, a separate VIP lounge with an enhanced level of comfort may be available. Regarding financial services, ATMs are installed in the airport for cash withdrawals. It is worth noting that currency exchange is not a primary service, as the airport mainly serves domestic flights.

Additional amenities are provided for various categories of travellers:

• Passengers with children can use the mother and child room, where all conditions for baby care are created.
• Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with staff assistance, and a barrier-free environment with ramps and specially equipped toilets has been created in the building.
• Medical assistance: A medical point operates within the terminal, which can be contacted in case of feeling unwell.
• Hotels and Business Services: There are no hotels directly inside the airport building, however, many accommodation options can be found in the city of Chaoyang. Specialised conference halls are absent, but basic business services may be provided in the VIP lounge.

At Chaoyang Airport (CHG), as in a typical regional aviation hub in China, the choice of dining establishments is compact but sufficient to comfortably wait for your flight. All cafes and eateries are located in the main terminal, both in the public area and after passing control.

Before boarding (landside), in the general check-in area, you will most likely discover a small Chinese-style eatery. This is an excellent place to try something local rather than limiting yourself to standard coffee. For example, here you can order traditional steamed buns baozi with various fillings or a hearty portion of dumplings jiaozi. For a quick snack, instant noodles that can be prepared on the spot are also available.

After passing security control (airside), in the departure zone, the choice usually comes down to one or two "quick lunch" format establishments. Most often, this is a cafe offering classic dishes: aromatic beef noodle soup (niu rou mian) or fried rice with egg and vegetables. This is an ideal option for a hearty lunch right before boarding. For those in a hurry, there are vending machines with drinks and snacks.

If you have special dietary requirements, be prepared for the choice to be very modest. Vegetarians can try ordering rice or noodles with vegetables, specifying that they be prepared without meat. However, finding specialised vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes here is extremely unlikely. In such cases, it is safest to bring a snack with you.

Prices in Chaoyang Airport establishments, as expected, are higher than in the city. The opening hours of cafes and restaurants are usually tied to the flight schedule: they open with the first flights and close after the departure of the last one, so passengers almost always have the opportunity to refresh themselves.

Travelling through Chaoyang Airport will be easier and more pleasant if you prepare in advance. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This will give you enough time to pass all formalities calmly. To save time at the counters, use the online check-in service on your airline's website — this will allow you to select a seat and receive a boarding pass in advance.

When passing security control, keep your passport and boarding pass ready. Hand luggage rules in China can be strict. Ensure that all liquids are in containers with a volume of no more than 100 ml and are packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects are prohibited, and there are often restrictions on the power capacity of portable chargers (power banks), which are best clarified with your airline.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat offers beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely and exit the plane among the first. Passengers with children often find it more comfortable to sit in the front part of the cabin. If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether you need to collect your luggage, and check the boarding gate number for the next flight immediately upon arrival.

Customs control usually proceeds quickly, but be ready to present your passport, visa, and possibly a return ticket or hotel booking. If you are importing or exporting goods subject to declaration, be sure to complete a customs declaration. To save a little, take an empty water bottle with you and fill it after passing the screening, and pack light snacks — food and drinks at the airport can be expensive.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative at the information desk or at the boarding gate. Keep an eye on the information boards for updates. Depending on the length of the delay and the airline's policy, you may be provided with vouchers for meals or even hotel accommodation. Stay calm and clearly ascertain your rights as a passenger.