Foshan Airport

Foshan Shadi Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a unique aerial gateway where civil aviation operates alongside a military base, creating a distinctive atmosphere of discipline and efficiency. This compact terminal, often referred to as the "little brother" of the giant hub in Guangzhou, appeals to travellers with its cosy scale and the absence of kilometre-long queues. Thanks to recent modernisation and the introduction of innovative modular structures, the airport has transformed from a strictly utilitarian facility into a convenient starting point for exploring the Pearl River Delta. You won't find extravagances here, but you will appreciate the lightning speed of formalities and the surprising proximity to the city centre.

Airport Features and Advantages:

Foshan Airport stands out from standard glass giants with its unique status as a joint-use facility. This influences conduct rules (for example, there may be strict restrictions on photographing the airfield), but in return, passengers benefit from the highest levels of security and punctuality.

The main advantage for tourists is its location. Situated just a few kilometres from the centre of Foshan, the airport allows you to reach your hotel or the business district in mere minutes, bypassing long transfers. This is an excellent alternative to the congested Guangzhou Airport (Baiyun), especially for those planning travel with budget airlines.

The airport recently underwent a major renovation. The commissioning of a new modular terminal has significantly improved passenger comfort by adding modern waiting areas and speeding up check-in processes, all while preserving the cosy atmosphere of a small aviation hub.

Below is the contact information for Foshan Airport (FUO), which will help you plan your trip and navigate upon arrival.

• Official Website: Foshan Airport is primarily served by China United Airlines. For the latest flight schedules, carriage rules, and services, it is recommended to visit their official website: www.flycua.com.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +86 757 8180 6521 (restrictions on international calls may apply; recommended for calls within the country).
• Airport Address: Shishan Town, Nanhai District, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China.
• Email: An official email address for general inquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the telephone to contact airport representatives.
• Social Media: The airport does not have separate official pages on popular international social networks. Important updates are usually published on the resources of the main air carrier.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the Lost & Found service of the airline you flew with directly. The main operator is China United Airlines (service number for calls within China: 400-102-6666).
• Passenger Support Contacts: For consultations and assistance at the airport, you can contact the general inquiry service phone: +86 757 8180 6521.

Foshan Airport (FUO), also known as Shadi Airport, is conveniently located relative to the city centre, and can be reached in several ways. The best option depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and available time.

The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is by public transport. Specialised shuttle buses (Airport Express) connect the airport with major districts of Foshan, including large hotels and transport hubs. This is a balanced choice in terms of price and comfort. You can also reach the airport by regular city buses, which is the cheapest but also the slowest option. There is no direct metro line to the airport, but you can travel to one of the nearest stations and then transfer to a taxi or bus.

Taking a taxi or using car-hailing services (such as DiDi) is the fastest and most comfortable method. The journey from the city centre will take approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. This option is significantly more expensive than public transport but ensures maximum convenience, especially if you are travelling with heavy luggage. It is recommended to use official taxis or trusted apps to avoid overcharging.

For those who value independence, car rental is available. However, it is important to remember that to drive a car in China, foreign citizens most often require a Chinese driving licence. If you are arriving at the airport in a personal or rented vehicle, parking with zones for short-term and long-term stays is at your service.

It is worth noting that Foshan Airport primarily serves domestic flights. For many international journeys, it is more convenient to use neighbouring major aviation hubs. From Foshan, it is easy to reach Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport or Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport via high-speed trains and intercity buses.

Foshan Shadi Airport (FUO) is a small and compact aviation hub characterised by a simple and clear structure. If you are accustomed to giant international hubs, you will find the concise environment here pleasantly refreshing. All civil aviation activity is concentrated in one terminal, which completely eliminates confusion with finding the right building or long walks.

The terminal serves both arriving and departing flights. Arrival and departure zones are functionally separated but located within the same building, making navigation intuitive. Getting lost here is practically impossible: clear signs in Chinese and English will help you orient yourself quickly. Since the airport mainly serves domestic flights, all procedures are optimised to the maximum.

The departure zone includes check-in counters and security checkpoints. Due to the low passenger flow, queues here are a rarity compared to the major airports of China. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5-2 hours before departure to pass through all formalities calmly. The arrival zone is situated so that passengers can quickly collect their luggage and exit to taxi stands or public transport stops.

The main feature of the airport in Foshan is its intimacy and efficiency. There are no huge shopping areas or entertainment complexes, but there is everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight: small cafes and shops. Main navigation tip: simply follow the signs. The compact dimensions of the terminal allow you to get from the entrance to the boarding gate in mere minutes after passing security control.

Foshan Airport (FUO), also known as Shadi Airport, has a unique history closely tied to the region's military past. Its construction was completed in 1954, and initially, it functioned exclusively as an air force base. This dual status—military and civil—still defines many aspects of its operations and infrastructure.

The airport took its first step into civil aviation in 1988 when it was opened for commercial flights. For over a decade, it served passengers, connecting Foshan with other cities in China. However, in 2002, civil flights were suspended. This was due to the redistribution of air traffic in the region following the opening of the new Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, which took on the main load.

A new stage in the airport's history began on 18 November 2009. After a seven-year hiatus and necessary modernisation, it reopened its doors to passengers. A key role in its revival was played by China United Airlines, which became the main, and for a long time the only, operator of civil flights. This event marked the transformation of Foshan Shadi into an important hub for domestic flights in the Pearl River Delta.

Today, the airport continues to serve domestic destinations, although its opportunities for expansion are limited due to joint use with the military. In connection with the rapid economic growth of Foshan and the entire region, there are ambitious plans to build a new, larger international airport in the Gaoming district. This future project is intended to replace the existing airfield and take the city's air connectivity to a completely new level.

Foshan Airport (FUO), despite its relatively small size, offers passengers all the basic services necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal infrastructure is focused on making your journey as convenient as possible from the moment you arrive at the airport.

You can have a bite to eat before departure at one of the several cafes and eateries serving local cuisine and light snacks. If you forgot to buy souvenirs or need travel goods, small shops operate within the terminal. For those who value enhanced comfort, a VIP lounge is available where you can relax in a quiet environment away from the main bustle.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay in touch with loved ones or handle work matters. Special charging stations are provided for electronic devices, so you need not worry about low battery on your smartphone or laptop.

The airport has ATMs for withdrawing cash. However, currency exchange services may be limited, so it is recommended to exchange money in advance. In case of necessity, passengers can visit the medical station for first aid. For travellers with small children, a mother and child room is equipped.

The airport is also equipped to receive passengers with reduced mobility. Ramps and specially equipped restrooms are provided. If necessary, you can book an assistance service in advance with your airline representative. Although there are no hotels on the airport grounds, many accommodation options can be found in the city of Foshan, just a few minutes' drive from the terminal.

Passengers at Foshan Airport (FUO) should bear in mind that the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited, which is typical for a small regional airport. If you plan to have a full lunch or dinner, it is strongly recommended to do so in the city before travelling to the airport.

In the main terminal, both in the public area and after passing security control, there are several small eateries and convenience stores. Their assortment mainly includes packaged products: sandwiches, pastries, crisps, instant noodles, and bottled drinks. This is a suitable option if you need a quick snack before departure.

Despite the absence of full-service restaurants offering freshly prepared Cantonese dishes, you can sometimes find packaged traditional snacks or sweets in local shops, which can be a final touch to your journey through China. Hot drinks such as tea or coffee can also be purchased here.

As in most airports around the world, prices for food and drinks here are significantly higher than in the city. Establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening before the first departures and closing after the last ones. Given the limited selection, planning your meals in advance will help make your wait for the flight more comfortable.

Travelling through Foshan Shadi Airport can be an easy and pleasant start or end to your trip if you prepare in advance. To avoid unnecessary stress and save time, use these tips to help you navigate the airport and make your flight as comfortable as possible.

Arrival Time and Check-in. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2-3 hours before a domestic flight departure. This will give you a buffer of time to calmly pass through all procedures. To bypass queues at counters, use online check-in if your airline provides this service. At the security checkpoint, be ready to present your passport and boarding pass, and remove laptops, tablets, and liquid containers from your hand luggage in advance.

Hand Luggage Rules. Be sure to take documents, money, gadgets, power banks, and necessary medications into the aircraft cabin. Remember the strict limit on carrying liquids: the volume of each bottle must not exceed 100 ml, and all must be packed in one transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are strictly prohibited in hand luggage. Please note that strict rules apply in Chinese airports regarding lighter carriage and the capacity of portable chargers—carrying them is permitted only in hand luggage.

Transfers and Seat Selection. If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. At the airport, follow the "Transfers" signs. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your priorities: window seats offer beautiful views, while aisle seats provide more legroom and the ability to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours.

Customs and Savings. Since Foshan Airport is oriented towards domestic travel, customs control upon departure is usually minimal. To save money, book tickets and transfers in advance, have a snack before the trip to the airport, and use public transport. Time savings are achieved through online check-in and travelling light, with only hand luggage.

If the Flight is Delayed. In case of a flight delay, do not panic. First, contact your airline representative at the information desk. They are obliged to provide you with current information about the departure, and in case of a long wait—drinks, meals, and in some cases, hotel accommodation. To make the wait easier, have a book or a charged tablet with films with you.