Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

Airport Features and Advantages:

Proximity to the city. This is one of the main advantages of Shuangliu over the new Tianfu airport. The distance to the centre of Chengdu is only about 16 km, allowing you to reach major attractions by taxi or metro in 20–30 minutes, saving precious time.

Transport accessibility. The airport is perfectly integrated into the urban network. A Metro station (Line 10) is located directly within the terminals, ensuring a fast and affordable connection to the city centre and railway stations. High-speed rail is also available, connecting the airport with neighbouring cities such as Leshan and Emeishan.

Visa-free transit. Chengdu participates in the 144-hour visa-free transit programme. This is an ideal opportunity for travelers to make a long layover, go out into the city, try authentic hot pot, and visit the Panda Breeding Research Base without applying for a full visa (subject to transit conditions).

Atmosphere and comfort. Inside the terminals, you can find many shops with panda-themed souvenirs and restaurants serving authentic Sichuan food. The airport is famous for its clear navigation and service efficiency, making it an excellent choice for domestic flights within China and flights from Asian countries.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU). We recommend verifying the data on official resources before your trip.

• Official Website: You will find the most complete and up-to-date information on the airport's official website: www.cdairport.com. The site is available in Chinese and English.
• Inquiry Service Phone: For immediate information about flights, services, and airport operations, you can call the 24-hour number: +86-28-85205555.
• Airport Address: Shuangliu, Chengdu, Sichuan, China, 610202.
• Email: The airport does not have a single public email address for general inquiries. It is recommended to use the feedback form on the official website or call by phone.
• Social Media: The airport may have official accounts on Chinese social networks. Links to them can usually be found on the official website.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost your belongings within the airport premises, contact the Lost and Found service at: +86-28-85206666. For luggage lost by the airline, you should contact your carrier directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For general passenger support questions, you can contact the main airport inquiry service.

Getting to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) from the city centre of Chengdu is quite simple thanks to a developed transport system. Depending on your budget, time, and preferences, you can choose one of several convenient options.

Public Transport — the most popular and economical way.

• Metro: The dedicated Metro Line 10 directly connects the city centre with both airport terminals (T1 and T2). This is perhaps the fastest and most reliable way to avoid traffic jams. The trip from central stations, including transfers, will take about 30-40 minutes. The ticket price is very affordable.
• High-Speed Train: Located on the basement level of Terminal 2 is the Shuangliu Airport railway station, which connects the airport with Chengdu South and East Railway Stations. This is an excellent option if you are arriving in the city by train from other regions of China.
• Shuttle Buses: Several bus routes run from the airport, connecting it with various districts of the city, including major railway stations and the central square. This is the most budget-friendly option, but travel time can vary greatly (from 40 minutes to 1.5 hours) depending on traffic conditions.

Taxi and Transfer

A taxi ride from the centre of Chengdu to Shuangliu Airport will take approximately 30-50 minutes excluding traffic jams. The cost will be significantly higher than public transport. A convenient alternative is car-hailing services such as Didi Chuxing. For maximum comfort, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with family, you can book a private transfer in advance.

Car Rental and Parking

Car rental company representatives operate at the airport. However, it is worth remembering that foreigners often require local driving licences to drive in China. If you still decide to arrive by private or rented car, both short-term and long-term parking facilities are provided at both terminals.

Important Recommendation: There is another major international airport operating in Chengdu — Chengdu Tianfu (TFU), which is located significantly further from the city. Before your trip, be sure to check exactly which airport your flight departs from to plan your route correctly.

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) includes two passenger terminals: Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2). Following the redistribution of flights with the new Tianfu airport, Shuangliu has been reoriented mainly towards domestic transport. Nevertheless, the terminals serve different airlines and destinations, so it is extremely important to verify in advance where your aircraft departs from.

Terminal 1 (T1) is the older of the two terminals. Today, it serves all flights of Sichuan Airlines (both domestic and international), as well as the remaining international and regional flights of other airlines at the airport, including destinations to Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. Despite its age, the terminal is equipped with everything necessary for travelers: there are Duty Free shops, currency exchange points, and tax refund counters.

Terminal 2 (T2) is the main, newer, and larger terminal of the airport. It receives and dispatches the vast majority of domestic flights throughout China, with the exception of those operated by Sichuan Airlines. Spacious halls, modern architecture, and a significantly larger selection of shops, cafes, and restaurants await passengers here compared to T1.

Navigation in Shuangliu Airport is quite simple thanks to numerous signs in Chinese and English. The layout is standard for most airports: departure zones are located on the upper floors, and arrival zones on the lower ones. There are several convenient ways to move between terminals: you can walk along the covered walkway (the walk will take 10-15 minutes), use the free shuttle bus (running interval about 10 minutes), or take the metro for one stop (Line 10 connects both terminals).

It is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance. Allow 2-3 hours for domestic flights and 3-4 hours for international ones. Flight check-in and security screening procedures can take a lot of time, especially during peak hours. Be sure to check the terminal number on your airline ticket or the airline's website before travelling to the airport to avoid unnecessary haste and confusion.

The history of Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) is a vivid reflection of the rapid development of the city of Chengdu and the entire western region of China. Founded in 1938 as a military airfield named Shuangguisi, it served as an important base during World War II. Civil aviation arrived here only in 1956, and a year later the airport was renamed Chengdu Shuangliu, after the name of the county in which it is located.

A real breakthrough in the airport's development began at the end of the 20th century. In 1995, it received international status, which opened new horizons for the region. Significant modernisation occurred in 2001 with the construction of the first modern terminal (now Terminal 1) and a new runway capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft. The airport played a critically important role in 2008, becoming the country's main humanitarian hub during the relief efforts for the devastating Sichuan earthquake.

The peak of growth occurred in 2012, when the huge and modern Terminal 2 was opened. This allowed Shuangliu Airport to become one of the busiest aviation hubs not only in China, but in the world. It has repeatedly set records for passenger traffic, becoming the main gateway for many travelers to Sichuan province, known for its pandas and spicy cuisine. An interesting fact: before the opening of the new airport, Shuangliu was one of the few major airports in the world located so close to the city centre — just 16 kilometres away.

With the opening of the new Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) in 2021, the role of Shuangliu has changed. Most international and some domestic flights were transferred to the new airport. Today, CTU continues to remain an important transport hub, specialising mainly in domestic and regional flights, and serves as a base for many local airlines, preserving a rich heritage in the history of aviation in China.

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) in Chengdu is a modern and well-equipped transport hub, offering passengers a full range of services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Here you will find numerous restaurants and cafes to suit any taste: from establishments serving authentic Sichuan cuisine to popular international fast-food chains. For shopping enthusiasts, there are numerous shops, including large Duty Free zones with perfumes, beverages, souvenirs, and goods from global brands.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminals, and numerous sockets and special stations are provided for charging electronic devices. If you prefer to wait for your flight in a calmer environment, several business lounges and VIP lounges are at your service. For an additional fee, passengers gain access to comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and drinks, fresh press, and shower rooms.

To handle financial matters, bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points operate at the airport. In case of feeling unwell, you can visit the 24-hour medical points, ready to provide first aid.

The airport takes care of passengers with children: play zones are equipped for young travelers, as well as mother and baby rooms. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance, including special equipment and escort services. It is recommended to contact your airline in advance to request an assistant.

For business people, business centres and conference rooms are provided where one can work or hold a meeting. If you have a long layover or an early flight, you will easily find a suitable option for an overnight stay — several hotels are located right on the airport territory or in the immediate vicinity, offering guests convenient transfers to the terminals.

Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) in Chengdu reflects the gastronomic richness of Sichuan province, offering travelers a wide selection of establishments for every taste and budget. Regardless of whether you are looking for a quick snack before departure or want to enjoy one last authentic Sichuan dish, you will find a suitable option at the airport.

The main part of the restaurants and cafes is concentrated in Terminal 2, which serves domestic flights. Here you will find both popular chain establishments and restaurants specialising in the cuisine of China. This is your best chance to try famous local dishes: spicy "Dan Dan" noodles, piquant "Kung Pao" chicken, or the famous Sichuan hot pot in a version adapted for travelers. Establishments are located both in the public zone (landside) and in the secure zone after screening (airside).

In Terminal 1, from where international flights operate, the selection is slightly more modest but also diverse. International fast-food chains, coffee shops like Starbucks, as well as several restaurants offering both Chinese and Asian cuisine are represented here. This is a convenient option for those who prefer familiar food before a long flight or want to quickly grab a coffee.

Dining Recommendations:

• For a quick snack, numerous noodle shops, points selling dim sum and steamed baozi buns, or coffee shops with pastries are perfect.
• For a full lunch, choose restaurants in the departure zone of Terminal 2, where you can enjoy authentic Sichuan cuisine without rushing.
• Passengers with special dietary needs, including vegetarians, should pay attention to dishes with tofu and vegetable side dishes. It is recommended to check the ingredients of dishes with staff to ensure the absence of unwanted ingredients, as special menus (Halal, gluten-free) are rarely found.

Prices at the airport are traditionally higher than in the city but remain at an acceptable level. Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing late at night. Some cafes and snack shops in the departure zones may operate around the clock.

To ensure your journey through Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport goes as comfortably as possible, take advantage of our tips. This major aviation hub in China serves millions of passengers, and proper preparation will help avoid unnecessary stress.

Arrival time at the airport: We recommend arriving at least 2-3 hours before departure for domestic destinations and 3-4 hours before international flights. The airport is large, and queues for check-in and screening can be long, especially during peak hours and public holidays.

Check-in and Security: Screening procedures at Chinese airports are known for their thoroughness. Keep your passport and boarding pass at hand. Be prepared that you may be asked to turn on laptops, tablets, and other electronic devices. Online check-in, if available with your airline, will help save time.

Seat selection on the plane: If you want to enjoy views of the mountainous terrain of Sichuan during takeoff or landing, choose a window seat. An aisle seat will provide more legroom and allow you to stand up freely. For a quicker exit upon arrival, book seats in the front part of the cabin.

Hand luggage: Standard rules prohibit carrying liquids in containers larger than 100 ml and sharp objects. Pay special attention to portable chargers (power banks) and spare lithium batteries. In Chengdu, as in all of China, they can be carried only in hand luggage, and the capacity marking must be clearly visible on the casing. Devices without markings may be confiscated.

Transfer passengers: If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and go through check-in again. In the terminal, follow the "Transit"/"Transfer" signs. If you have a long layover, explore the possibilities for rest in special zones or capsule hotels at the airport.

Customs Control: When entering or leaving the country, use the "Green Channel" if you have no goods subject to declaration. If you are carrying something that requires declaration (for example, large sums of cash or expensive purchases), head to the "Red Channel".

Saving time and money: To get to the city or from it to the airport, use the metro — it is faster and cheaper than a taxi during peak hours. Take an empty water bottle with you and fill it at drinking fountains after passing security control to avoid spending money on drinks.

In case of flight delay: Regularly check information on the departure boards. If the flight is delayed or cancelled, contact your airline representative for instructions and information about possible compensation (meals, hotel). Ensure that your hand luggage contains everything necessary for such a case: a charger, a book, a light snack, and personal hygiene items.