Chifeng Airport

Chifeng Yulong Airport is the modern air gateway to the city of Chifeng, located in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region in northern China. As a vital transport hub for the region, it connects this land, rich in cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes, with the country's major cities. For travellers wishing to explore the unique combination of steppe scenery and historical monuments, the airport serves as the starting point for a fascinating adventure.

Chifeng Airport features a modern terminal designed to comfortably serve the constantly growing flow of passengers. Inside the building, guests will find all necessary amenities: from comfortable waiting areas and dining outlets where one can taste local cuisine, to shops offering souvenirs and travel essentials. Free Wi-Fi allows you to stay connected, while the availability of car rental counters and convenient transport links to the city make the beginning and end of your journey as simple and convenient as possible.

• Official Website: At the time of checking, the main official website of the airport (www.cfjc.com.cn) is available primarily in Chinese. It is recommended to use a browser-integrated translator for navigation.
• Information Desk Phone: +86 476 881 2222
• Airport Address: Wangyefu Town, Harqin Banner, Chifeng, Inner Mongolia, China.
• Email: An official email address for general enquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the telephone number for communication.
• Social Media: Chifeng Airport does not maintain active pages on international social networks (such as Facebook or Instagram). Its main presence is concentrated on Chinese platforms.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you must first contact the representative of the airline you flew with. Additional information can be obtained from the airport's luggage tracing service via the information desk phone.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance or consultation directly within the terminal building, please approach the information desk or call the general enquiry number: +86 476 881 2222.

Getting to Yulong Airport (CIF) from the city centre of Chifeng is effortless, as it is located just 15 kilometres away. Travellers can choose the most convenient method depending on their budget and preferences. On average, a trip from the city centre to the terminal takes about 20-30 minutes, but it is always wise to allow extra time in case of traffic, especially during peak hours.

Public transport in China is well-developed, and Chifeng is no exception. The most economical option to reach the airport is the special shuttle bus (Airport Express Line). Routes usually connect the airport with key points in the city, such as major hotels and bus stations. This is an excellent choice for solo travellers and those wishing to save money. Please check the schedule and route in advance, as they may change.

Taxi and Transfer offer a more comfortable and faster method. A car can easily be found anywhere in the city or ordered via an app. A taxi ride will cost significantly more than the bus but provides convenience, especially if you are travelling with large luggage or family. It is recommended to use official taxi services and ensure the driver switches on the meter at the start of the journey. You can also book a private transfer in advance, which guarantees a fixed price and a meet-and-greet service at the appointed time.

For those who value independence and plan to move actively around the region, car rental is an excellent solution. Car rental counters are available both at the airport and in the city. Having a car gives you the freedom to explore not only Chifeng but also its picturesque surroundings. If you choose this option, do not forget about parking at the airport. Zones for short-term and long-term parking are provided here, which is convenient if you are flying away for a few days.

When planning your route, it is also useful to know about other air harbours in the region. Depending on your onward journey, it might be more convenient to arrive at or depart from neighbouring airports, such as Chengde Puning Airport (about 142 km away) or Chaoyang Airport (approximately 148 km away).

Chifeng Yulong Airport (CIF) is a modern and compact aviation hub distinguished by a structure that is simple and easy for passengers to understand. It consists of one main passenger terminal serving both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, you will not have to worry about complicated transfers between different buildings.

The terminal layout is intuitive. All key zones—check-in counters, security screening, the departure hall, and the baggage claim area—are located in one building a short distance from each other. Navigation is significantly simplified thanks to clear signage, which is generally duplicated in English. Getting lost here is practically impossible, even if you are visiting the airport for the first time.

Departure and arrival zones are logically separated. Upon arrival, you will proceed to the baggage claim hall and then to the city exit. For departing passengers, the route is standard: entrance to the terminal, flight check-in, passing through security control, and waiting for boarding in a comfortable lounge. Due to the terminal's compactness, the path from the entrance to the boarding gate does not take much time.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Chifeng airport usually happens quite quickly. Unlike giant international hubs, long queues are rare here. Typically, arriving at the airport 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight departure is sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass inspection without rushing. This makes travelling through CIF especially convenient for those who value their time and comfort.

The history of the airport in Chifeng is, in essence, the story of two facilities: the old airfield and the new modern aviation hub. The original airport was built in 1935 and performed mixed functions for decades, serving both military and civil aviation. Over time, as the city grew and the demand for air travel increased, it became clear that the old infrastructure required a radical replacement.

A key moment in the region's aviation history was the construction of the new airport. Chifeng Yulong Airport, which inherited the IATA code CIF from its predecessor, was solemnly opened on 20 December 2008. This project became an important step for economic development and increasing the tourist appeal not only of the city but of the entire eastern part of Inner Mongolia.

Since its opening, the airport has demonstrated steady growth. Its development has followed the path of expanding the route network, linking Chifeng with the largest metropolises of China, including Beijing, Shanghai, and other important economic centres. The increase in passenger traffic contributed to the gradual modernisation of infrastructure and improvement in service quality, establishing it as a significant regional transport hub.

An interesting fact is related to the airport's name. "Yulong" translates as "Jade Dragon". This name is a reference to a famous archaeological find made in the vicinity of Chifeng—an ancient jade artifact in the shape of a dragon. Thus, the name of the air harbour symbolises the deep historical and cultural roots of this unique region.

Chifeng Airport (CIF) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite or drink coffee before departure, as well as shops with souvenirs, travel goods, and locally produced products.

For the convenience of travellers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and charging stations for electronic devices are equipped in the waiting halls. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can utilise VIP lounges, offering a quieter atmosphere and additional amenities. ATMs and currency exchange points are also located within the terminal building.

The airport cares for all categories of passengers. There is a medical point for first aid. A mother and child room is provided for travellers with children. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on special assistance from staff, and the terminal infrastructure, including ramps and equipped restrooms, is adapted to their needs.

For those who need to rest between flights, hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. Business travellers can make use of business lounges suitable for work and meetings, making Chifeng Airport a convenient starting point for a journey across China.

Chifeng Airport (CIF), being a regional hub, offers passengers a basic but sufficient selection of establishments for a snack or a full lunch. Most cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the main building of the single terminal, so finding them will not be difficult.

The majority of catering establishments are located before security control (in the public area). Here you will find several restaurants offering traditional Chinese cuisine, as well as local specialities of Inner Mongolia. This is the best place for a leisurely lunch. Typically, there are also cafes with coffee, tea, and pastries in this zone. If you wish to have a substantial meal before departure, we recommend doing so here.

After passing security, in the departure zone, the choice is more limited. Usually, a small cafe operates here where you can buy drinks, sandwiches, and light snacks. Vending machines with drinks and snacks may also be installed. These options are ideal for those who want a quick bite immediately before boarding the flight.

When travelling through Chifeng, it is worth paying attention to local cuisine dishes. If the opportunity arises, try the traditional Mongolian salty milk tea (suutei tsai) or lamb dishes—these are the region's calling card. Regarding specific dietary needs, finding certified vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes may be challenging. Vegetarians will likely be able to order simple vegetable side dishes or noodles without meat, but it is best to clarify the ingredients with the staff. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to carry food with them.

Prices in airport establishments are generally higher than in the city but remain at a moderate level. The opening hours of most cafes and restaurants are tied to the flight schedule: they open a few hours before the first departure and close after the last plane has left.

Travelling through the airport of Chifeng city can be an easy and pleasant beginning or end to your adventure in China if you plan all details in advance. Here are a few useful tips that will help you orient yourself and avoid unnecessary stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights, which make up the majority at Chifeng Airport, it is recommended to arrive 2-2.5 hours before departure. This time is sufficient to calmly go through all procedures. If possible, use online check-in—this will save you time in queues at airline counters.

Passing Security Control. Security rules in Chinese airports are quite strict. Be prepared that you may be asked to switch on electronic devices (laptops, tablets). Power banks must be carried only in hand luggage, and they must have a clearly visible capacity marking. Lighters and matches are generally confiscated. To speed up the process, place all gadgets, liquids, and metal items in a separate tray in advance.

Hand Luggage and Seat Selection. The standard rule for liquids in hand luggage applies: containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects are prohibited. When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: a window seat offers beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours.

Transfer Passengers. If you have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. In smaller airports like Chifeng, transfers usually happen quickly, but always allow sufficient time between flights in case of unforeseen delays.

Customs Control. When entering or leaving the country, you must complete a declaration if you are carrying large sums of money or goods subject to declaration. Be prepared for a possible luggage inspection. Keep receipts for major purchases to confirm their value if necessary.

Saving Time and Money. Order a taxi through official apps or use the counters in the arrival hall to avoid inflated prices. Explore the possibility of getting to the city by public transport. Bring an empty water bottle with you—after passing security control, you can fill it at drinking fountains, which are available in most Chinese airports.

In Case of Flight Delay. First of all, contact your airline representative for the latest information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for food or drinks, and for long waits, accommodation in a hotel. Remain calm and keep the airline's contacts and your travel insurance details at hand.