Dazhou Heshi Airport

Dazhou Heshi Airport is a landmark aviation facility situated in the scenic bend of the Renhe River, which served as the main aerial gateway for residents of the eastern part of Sichuan Province for many decades. This compact and welcoming airport is remembered by travellers for its homely atmosphere and convenient location relative to the urban area, allowing access to the city centre in a matter of minutes. Although the baton of passenger transport has been passed to a new modern terminal, Heshi remains an important chapter in the history of the transport infrastructure development of the Dazhou region. Its runway and terminal ensured a reliable connection between the city and the country's largest metropolises for a long time.

Among the key features and advantages for which Dazhou Heshi Airport was renowned, several important aspects can be highlighted:

Unique location and history. The airfield was located in immediate proximity to the river, which provided beautiful views during takeoff and landing. Furthermore, the facility has a rich historical heritage: built back in 1940, it was used by the legendary "Flying Tigers" aviation group during World War II, making it a significant memorial site.

Compactness and convenience. Thanks to the small size of the terminal, passengers could complete all pre-flight formalities as quickly as possible. The absence of long walkways and complex navigation made the journey through Heshi easy and devoid of the stress typical of large hubs.

Transport accessibility. The airport was located just 12 kilometres from the city centre, which allowed travellers to significantly save time and money on transfers. The journey to the terminal took minimal time, which was highly appreciated by local residents and tourists.

To contact representatives of the airport serving Dazhou, you may use the following contact details. Please note that some information, such as email addresses, may not be available for general public access.

• Official Website: The airport is managed by the Sichuan Airport Group. Current information on flights and services can be found on their corporate portal: www.sichuanairport.com.
• Inquiry Service Phone: For information regarding flights, services, and general queries, please call: +86 818 583 0000.
• Airport Address: China, Sichuan Province, Dazhou City, Dachuan District, Jinya Town (Jinya Town, Dachuan District, Dazhou, Sichuan, China).
• Email: An official email address for passengers is not published. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Social Media: Specialised social media pages for the airport are not maintained.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the luggage tracing service via the main airport phone number or directly through your airline's representative office.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For consultations and assistance, passengers may contact the airport inquiry service by phone.

There are several ways to get from the city centre of Dazhou to Dazhou Heshi Airport, suitable for any budget. The most economical option is specialised shuttle buses. They depart from key points in the city, for example, from the central bus station, and proceed directly to the airport. The bus journey will take approximately 40-50 minutes depending on traffic, and the ticket cost is minimal. This is an excellent choice if you wish to save money. It is important to remember that the metro or trains do not run to the airport, so the bus is the only form of public transport.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the departure terminal is to order a taxi. The trip from the city centre will take about 25-35 minutes, allowing you to accurately calculate your arrival time for the flight. Although the cost of a taxi ride is higher than a bus, it is the ideal option for travellers with large luggage or families. We recommend booking a car through official services or your hotel to ensure a fair tariff.

If you are travelling around the region in a rented car, getting to the airport will be very convenient. The roads leading to the terminal have clear signage. At Dazhou Heshi Airport, a parking lot operates for your convenience, where you can leave your car during your absence. This is a great option for those who value independence while travelling across China.

When planning your journey, it is useful to know about other airports in the region. Depending on your route, airports in neighbouring cities might be convenient, such as Bazhong Enyang (approximately 100 km away), Wanxian Airport (103 km away), or the major Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, located 174 km from Dazhou. Also nearby are Nanchong Airport and Langzhong Gucheng Airport.

Dazhou Heshi Airport (DAX) represents a compact and functional aviation hub serving domestic flights across China. Its layout is extremely simple and understandable for passengers, making navigation quick and convenient.

Dazhou Heshi Airport operates with one passenger terminal. It serves both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to this, you do not have to worry about moving between different buildings — all procedures take place in one location.

The terminal scheme is intuitive. On the ground floor, there is a general area with check-in counters and a baggage claim area for arriving passengers. After checking in, you proceed to the security screening zone, after which you enter the airside area — the waiting lounge with boarding gates. The departure and arrival zones are clearly separated but are within walking distance of each other.

Completing all formalities at Dazhou Airport usually does not take much time. Flight check-in and pre-flight screening generally proceed quite quickly due to the low passenger flow. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport generally 1.5-2 hours before departure to drop off luggage and pass all necessary procedures without rushing.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the signs, which are typically duplicated in English. The compact dimensions of the building practically eliminate the possibility of getting lost. All main zones — from the entrance to the boarding gate — are located logically and sequentially, making the stay at the airport as comfortable as possible even for those visiting for the first time.

Dazhou Heshi Airport (DAX) is not just a former transport hub of the city of Dazhou, but a place with a rich and multifaceted history spanning over 80 years. Its story began long before the era of mass passenger transport and is closely intertwined with key events in the history of China.

The founding of the airport occurred during a challenging time. Its construction began in 1938, and it was officially opened in 1940, primarily as a military airfield. During the Second Sino-Japanese War, it played a vital strategic role and was used by both the Chinese Air Force and the US Army Air Forces. To American pilots, it was known by the code name Tahshien Airfield. This military phase became the starting point in the airport's long life.

After the war ended, the Heshi airfield was converted for civil needs, gradually transforming into the main air hub for Dazhou and the surrounding regions. For decades, it ensured the city's connection with the rest of the country, serving domestic flights. However, located relatively close to the city centre, the airport faced natural limitations for the expansion of the runway and terminals, which became a problem amidst rapid economic growth.

The most significant stage of modernisation in the city's aviation life was the decision to build a completely new, more modern airport. Thus began the story of Dazhou Jinya Airport (DZH). Heshi Airport concluded its long service on the evening of May 18, 2022. After the final flight was completed, all aviation operations were officially transferred to the new airport, and Heshi closed its doors to passengers forever, becoming a part of history.

Thus, the history of Dazhou Heshi Airport is a journey from a wartime military airfield to an important civil facility that served the city faithfully for more than eight decades until it passed the baton to its modern successor.

Dazhou Heshi Airport (DAX) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Regardless of the purpose of your trip, here you will find amenities that will make your journey more pleasant and organised.

Dining and Shopping. Various cafes and eateries are located in the airport terminal where you can have a snack before departure, enjoying both local cuisine of China and familiar international snacks. There are also several shops available to passengers where you can purchase souvenirs, travel essentials, and gifts for loved ones.

Lounges and Wi-Fi. Comfortable waiting areas are equipped for all passengers. To stay connected, take advantage of the free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminal. Special stands and sockets are provided for charging electronic devices.

Additional Services. ATMs and currency exchange points are available at the airport. In case of need, you can contact the medical point for first aid. For passengers travelling with small children, mother and child rooms are equipped. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on staff assistance and the availability of special infrastructure, including ramps and equipped washrooms.

Business Services and Hotels. For those who value enhanced comfort, VIP lounges operate at the airport, where you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, have beverages, and enjoy a snack. Some waiting lounges offer basic business services. If you have a long layover or an early departure, several hotels offering comfortable accommodation are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport.

At Dazhou Heshi Airport (DAX), passengers can find several options for a snack or a full meal, although the selection generally corresponds to the size of a regional airport. The main catering establishments are concentrated in the single terminal and offer both local dishes and familiar international cuisine.

Before Security Control (Landside), in the general area, there are usually several cafes and small restaurants. Here you can have a leisurely lunch with those seeing you off. The menu often includes Sichuan cuisine dishes, for which the province is famous. If you have time, try the noodles or dumplings in spicy sauce — this is a great way to experience local flavours. You can also find coffee shops offering beverages and pastries here.

After Security Control (Airside), in the departure zone, the choice is usually more limited. Typically, fast-food style establishments and coffee shops are located here, ideally suited for those who want a quick bite before boarding the flight. You will be able to buy sandwiches, salads, coffee, tea, and soft drinks. This is a convenient option if there is little time left before departure.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding certified Halal, vegan, or gluten-free dishes may be challenging. However, Chinese restaurant menus often feature vegetarian options based on vegetables, tofu, and rice. It is recommended to clarify the ingredients with the staff. Prices at the airport are traditionally higher than in the city, and most establishments operate according to the flight schedule — from early morning until the departure of the last aircraft.

To ensure your journey from Dazhou Heshi Airport runs smoothly, we recommend arriving in advance. For domestic flights within China, try to be at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure. This will give you enough time to check in, drop off luggage, and pass security control in the city of Dazhou without rushing.

One of the best ways to save time is online check-in, which most airlines offer. This allows you to avoid queues at counters, especially if you are travelling with hand luggage only. Security checkpoints at Chinese airports can be quite busy. Ensure that all liquids in your hand luggage are in containers up to 100 ml, and electronic devices, such as laptops and power banks, are easily accessible for inspection.

Pay special attention to hand luggage regulations. China has strict restrictions on carrying lithium-ion batteries and external chargers (power banks): they can only be carried in hand luggage, and their capacity must not exceed the limit set by the airline. Lighters and matches are often completely prohibited. Be sure to check your airline's rules before travelling.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences. A seat by the window will give you beautiful views during takeoff and landing. A seat by the aisle allows you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. If you need more legroom, consider choosing a seat at the emergency exit, although an additional fee is often charged for this.

If you have a connecting flight, study the airport map in advance and calculate the time needed to transfer between gates. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative immediately. They are obliged to provide you with information about the flight status, and in case of long delays — provide meals and, if necessary, hotel accommodation.

When passing through customs control, be prepared to declare goods if their value or quantity exceeds the limit. Do not attempt to import or export prohibited items. To save a little, take an empty water bottle with you and fill it at drinking fountains after passing security control, as food and beverages in the departure zone usually cost more.