Guyuan Liupanshan Airport

Guyuan Liupanshan Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a modern air gateway to one of the most scenic and historically significant regions of China. Located at the foot of the majestic Liupan Mountains, it serves as a starting point for travellers wishing to explore ancient Buddhist grottoes, national parks, and experience the unique culture of the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. Since its opening, the airport has significantly simplified access to this remote yet incredibly interesting corner of the country, connecting it with major metropolises.

Despite its modest size, Guyuan Liupanshan Airport is distinguished by thoughtful organisation and modern facilities. It is designed to ensure maximum convenience for passengers: there are no long queues or tiring transfers between zones. Thanks to its compactness, check-in, security screening, and boarding processes are fast and efficient. Its main advantage is its strategic location, making it the ideal starting point for travels across southern Ningxia, including the famous Liupan Mountains and the Xumishan Grottoes, which are within easy reach.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended to contact the airport directly or your airline. Below are the main contact details that may be useful for travellers.

• Official Website: Guyuan Liupanshan Airport (GYU) is part of the Western Airport Group. A separate official website for the airport may not exist. Information can often be found on aggregator sites or the management company's portal.
• Inquiry Service Phone: The main contact number for information is: +86 954 266 8888. Please be mindful of potential language barriers and time differences.
• Airport Address: Ningxia, Guyuan, Yuanzhou District, Zhonghe Township, China.
• Email: A dedicated email address for general inquiries is usually not provided. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Airport Social Media: Small regional airports in China rarely have their own pages on international social media networks. News and updates are most often published on the platforms of airlines operating flights to Guyuan.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost or damaged luggage, you should first contact your airline's counter at the arrival airport. You can also call the general airport inquiry service for further instructions.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions related to airport services, use the main inquiry service phone number: +86 954 266 8888.

Guyuan Liupanshan Airport is located just 10–15 kilometres from the city centre of Guyuan, making the trip there quick and tireless. Transport accessibility is quite good here, despite the small size of the air harbour. Travellers can choose one of several options depending on their budget and amount of luggage.

The most popular and convenient way to get to the terminal is by taxi. The journey from the city centre usually takes 20–30 minutes, provided there is no heavy traffic. Taxis in Guyuan are relatively inexpensive: the metered fare will be approximately 30–50 CNY. It is recommended to have the airport address in Chinese to show the driver, or use popular ride-hailing apps if you have access to mobile internet.

For those who prefer public transport, special airport shuttles (buses) are available. They usually depart from the Civil Aviation Ticket Office in the city centre, aligned with flight schedules. The bus fare is very affordable — about 10–20 CNY. There is currently no metro or railway connection directly to the airport terminal.

If you plan to rent a car, please note that in small Chinese cities, the choice of international rental companies may be limited, and a temporary Chinese driving license will be required to drive. Parking at the airport is located within walking distance of the terminal and offers standard rates for short-term and long-term parking.

As Guyuan Airport handles a limited number of flights, many tourists use alternative routes through larger neighbouring aviation hubs, subsequently reaching Guyuan by train or bus. Nearby options include Qingyang Airport (about 129 km) and Zhongwei Shapotou Airport (191 km). For international flights, travellers often choose major hubs such as Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport or Yinchuan Hedong International Airport, located approximately 240–250 km away. The region is also served by Longnan Chengxian Airport.

Guyuan Liupanshan Airport (GYU) is a modern and compact airport designed for maximum passenger convenience. Its structure is extremely simple and clear, making navigation easy even for those visiting for the first time.

Structure and Navigation

The airport consists of one passenger terminal that serves all domestic flights — both departures and arrivals. Because of this, you do not need to worry about transferring between different buildings. All infrastructure is located under one roof and within walking distance.

The terminal layout is logical and intuitive. Upon entry, you find yourself in the general area where check-in counters and information desks are located. After checking in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening area, and then to the secure airside area with boarding gates. The arrivals area is in another part of the building and includes luggage reclaim belts and the exit to the city.

Processing Time

Thanks to the airport's small size and moderate passenger flow, all pre-flight formalities here are completed quite quickly. On average, check-in and security screening take from 30 to 45 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport generally 1.5-2 hours before departure to go through all stages without rushing and relax before your flight.

Recommendations for Passengers

Navigation at Guyuan Airport will not cause difficulties. There are signs in Chinese and English everywhere. Since all key zones — check-in, security, boarding gates — are close to each other, getting lost is practically impossible. Simply follow the signs, and you will easily find the sector you need.

Guyuan Liupanshan Airport (GYU) is a relatively young but strategically important transport hub in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region of China. Its history does not stretch back into the distant past, as the airport was officially opened to passengers on August 26, 2010. The main goal of its creation was to stimulate economic growth and develop tourism in the southern part of the region, especially around the scenic Liupanshan Mountains, after which it was named.

The airport project became part of a large-scale state programme to develop the western regions of the country. Construction work began in June 2007 and lasted for three years. Although the airport itself is a modern facility, it is closely linked to 20th-century history. Its name refers to the Liupanshan Mountains, famous as the route of the Long March of the Chinese Communists in 1935, giving this place special cultural and historical significance.

Since its opening, Guyuan Liupanshan Airport has played a key role in ensuring transport accessibility for the city of Guyuan. It was built to 4C class standards, has a runway length of 2800 metres, and is capable of accommodating popular medium-haul aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. The airport's main achievement is the drastic reduction in travel time to Guyuan from major metropolises in China, making the region attractive for tourists and business travellers.

Interesting fact: the construction of the airport was one of the key projects within the 11th Five-Year Plan for the development of Ningxia. Its appearance was not just a solution to a logistical problem, but a true symbol of modernisation and a new era for this historically rich region. Today, the airport continues to successfully fulfil its mission, serving as a gateway to the natural beauties and cultural heritage of the Liupanshan Mountains.

Guyuan Liupanshan Airport (GYU), despite its modest size, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several cafés and snack bars where you can have a bite before departure, trying local dishes or having a cup of tea. There are also small shops where you can purchase souvenirs, travel goods, and newspapers.

Comfortable waiting lounges are available for all passengers. Free Wi-Fi is active in the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are installed in the waiting areas. Business class passengers and airline loyalty card holders can utilise the services of the VIP lounge, which offers enhanced comfort, a private atmosphere, and complimentary beverages.

ATMs for cash withdrawals are located on the airport premises. However, currency exchange services may be limited, so it is recommended to arrange this in advance in major cities. A medical point operates to provide emergency assistance. Families with small children can use the specially equipped mother and baby room for infant care.

The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps and accessible restrooms. If necessary, special assistance for moving through the terminal and boarding the aircraft can be requested. There are no hotels directly within the airport building, but several hotels are located in the city of Guyuan, which can be quickly reached by taxi. Specialised conference halls or business centres are absent at the airport.

Guyuan Liupanshan Airport (GYU) is a compact regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments reflects this. Nevertheless, passengers can find several options to have a snack or a full meal before departure.

Main Area (Pre-security)

In the public area of the terminal, the main airport restaurant or café is typically located. Here you can order full hot meals. Given the location in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, many dishes are prepared in accordance with Halal standards. This is an excellent opportunity to taste authentic local cuisine. Look out for noodle soups with lamb or beef, as well as rice dishes with vegetables and meat. This is the best place for a leisurely lunch if you have enough time before your flight.

Departure Area (Post-security)

After passing through security, the selection is usually more limited. Here you will likely find small kiosks or cafés offering quick snacks: sandwiches, pastries, crisps, as well as hot and cold drinks. This is a convenient option for those who want a quick bite immediately before boarding the flight.

Recommendations and Features:

• Local Cuisine: If you want to experience the region's cuisine, look for establishments with the sign "清真" (qīngzhēn), which means Halal. This ensures authentic flavours and local recipes suitable for Muslim travellers.
• Dietary Options: Vegetarian options may be limited, but simple dishes such as fried rice with egg and vegetables or vegetable noodles can usually be found. Specialised vegan or gluten-free menus are typically not available.
• Prices: The cost of food and drinks at the airport is higher than in the city but remains at a moderate level compared to major international hubs.
• Opening Hours: Dining establishments operate in accordance with the flight schedule. If you have a very early morning or late night departure, be prepared that most cafés and restaurants might be closed. It is recommended to check opening hours on site or eat beforehand.

To make your journey through Guyuan Liupanshan Airport as comfortable as possible, use our tips. Planning in advance will help avoid stress and save time on the road.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights within China, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. This will give you enough time to complete all formalities without rushing. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. Have your passport and boarding pass ready at security control.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: a window seat will offer beautiful views, especially when flying over mountain ranges, while an aisle seat provides more legroom and freedom of movement. Pay special attention to hand luggage rules. Standard restrictions apply to liquids (no more than 100 ml in one container) and sharp objects. China also has strict rules for power banks: they can only be carried in hand luggage, and the capacity must be clearly marked on the device.

Transfers and Customs. If you have a connecting flight in the city of Guyuan, check with your airline in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. Usually, on domestic flights, luggage is transferred automatically. Customs control is a standard procedure for international flights. Since Guyuan Liupanshan Airport primarily serves domestic destinations, most passengers will not need to pass through it.

Saving Money and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, bring an empty water bottle and fill it at drinking fountains after passing security control. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline's information desk for up-to-date information on the new departure time and possible compensation (e.g., meal vouchers). Remain calm and explore the airport's facilities: there are cafés and rest areas where you can spend time comfortably while waiting.