Hanzhong Airport

Hanzhong Chenggu Airport is not merely a functional transport hub, but a modern aerial gateway to the "cradle of Chinese civilization" and the legendary era of the Three Kingdoms. Located amidst the picturesque landscapes of Shaanxi Province, this air harbour welcomes travellers with a surprising blend of high technology and provincial comfort. Arriving here marks the first step in a fascinating journey through a region where ancient history is harmoniously interwoven with natural beauty.

Airport Features and Advantages:

Despite its relatively small size, Hanzhong Chenggu Airport boasts a number of advantages that make it convenient for tourists:

• Modern Infrastructure: The terminal, opened in 2014, is designed in a unique architectural style that references the culture of the Han Dynasty. The building is notable for its spaciousness, excellent natural lighting, and intuitive navigation.
• Speed of Service: Thanks to the compact nature of the terminal, passengers spend minimal time on pre-flight formalities and baggage claim. Queues are a rare phenomenon here, allowing you to plan your arrival at the airport without needing an excessive time buffer.
• Convenient Location: The airport is located in Chenggu County, which is an attraction in itself (the birthplace of the Silk Road pioneer Zhang Qian). Proximity to the G5 expressway allows for quick access to both the centre of Hanzhong and neighbouring tourist locations.
• Technical Equipment: The airfield holds a 4C class rating, allowing it to accommodate major types of narrow-body aircraft (such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320), ensuring reliable connections with major hubs in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen.

There are several ways to contact representatives of Hanzhong Chenggu Airport (HZG). Please note that the airport is part of the Western Airport Group, and many contact points may be centralised.

• Official Website: Generally, regional airports in China do not have separate websites. Up-to-date information can be found on the website of the management company, Western Airport Group: www.westaport.com. The site is available in Chinese.
• Information Desk Phone: The unified number for Western Airport Group airports is 96788. You can use this for general information regarding flights and services.
• Airport Address: Hanzhong Chenggu Airport, Chenggu County, Hanzhong, Shaanxi, China.
• Email: A specialised email address for general passenger enquiries is usually not provided. It is recommended to use telephone communication.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official pages on international social media platforms.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged checked baggage, you should first contact your airline's representative at the airport. If you have lost personal items within the terminal, please contact the general information service by phone.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and consultations, use the unified airport information service number: 96788.

Getting to Hanzhong Airport from the city itself is quite simple, as the transport infrastructure offers several convenient options for travellers. Regardless of your budget and preferences, you will be able to choose the most suitable method to catch your flight from Hanzhong on time.

The most affordable option is the specialised shuttle bus, which runs between the city centre and the airport. This is a popular choice among tourists and locals due to its low cost and convenient schedule coordinated with flights. The bus journey usually takes between 40 to 60 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Shuttle stops are typically located at key points in the city, for example, near major hotels or the central bus station.

For those who value comfort and time, the ideal solution would be a taxi or pre-booked transfer. A taxi ride from the city centre to the airport will take approximately 30-40 minutes. It is recommended to use official taxi services and ensure the driver switches on the meter. To avoid misunderstandings, it is useful to have the name and address of the airport written in Chinese. Booking a private transfer is the most convenient, albeit more expensive method, guaranteeing that you will be met at the desired location and delivered directly to the terminal without any hassle.

If you plan to explore not only the city but also its picturesque surroundings, it is worth considering car rental. Many international and local companies offer their services, however, it is worth remembering that driving in China may require a Chinese driving licence. The airport provides both short-term and long-term parking, which is convenient for those arriving in their own or rented vehicles.

When planning your route, it is worth considering other airports in the region that might be convenient for multi-leg journeys. Nearby air hubs include Longnan Chengxian, Guangyuan Airport, as well as the larger Xi'an Xianyang International Airport in Xi'an, offering a greater number of international and domestic flights. Other options include Bazhong Enyang and Ankang Airport.

Hanzhong Airport (HZG), also known as Hanzhong Chenggu Airport, represents a modern and compact aviation hub serving domestic flights across China. Its structure is designed for maximum passenger convenience, making navigation intuitively understandable even for those visiting for the first time.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to this, there is no need to transfer between terminals, which significantly saves time and effort for travellers. The terminal layout is standard for modern airports: the departure zone is located on the upper floor, while the arrival zone is on the lower floor.

The Departure Zone includes check-in counters, baggage drop-off points, the security control area, and boarding gates. After passing through inspection, passengers enter the secure area (airside) featuring a small number of shops, cafes, and comfortable waiting lounges. The Arrival Zone consists of a baggage claim hall with conveyor belts and customs control. Immediately at the exit of the arrival zone, you will find taxi stands and public transport stops.

Passing through all pre-flight formalities typically does not take much time. Due to the compact dimensions of the terminal, check-in and security screening usually take from 20 to 40 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before departure to avoid rushing, especially during peak hours. To navigate the terminal, simply follow the clear signs in Chinese and English and check information on the electronic display boards.

The history of the airport in the city of Hanzhong is a story of development and modernisation, reflecting the rapid growth of the region. The modern Hanzhong Chenggu Airport (HZG), used by travellers today, was opened relatively recently — on 13 August 2014. It replaced the old airport, which could no longer cope with the growing needs of the city and the aviation industry of China.

The predecessor of the current airport was Hanzhong Xiguan Airport. Its history began back in the 1930s, and it played an important strategic role during the Second World War, serving as a military airbase. After the war, it was converted for civil use and served as the city's main air gate for decades. However, located within the city limits, it was restricted in its possibilities for expansion and modernisation.

With the growth of Hanzhong and the increase in passenger traffic, it became obvious that the city needed a new, more modern airport. In 2009, a decision was made to build a new air harbour in Chenggu County, approximately 20 kilometres from the city centre. This was a massive project designed to provide the region with infrastructure meeting modern standards.

Construction of the new airport began in April 2012 and was completed in record time. The opening of Hanzhong Chenggu Airport in 2014 became a key event for the transport system of Shaanxi Province. The new complex, with a longer runway and a modern terminal, allowed for the reception of a greater number of flights and larger aircraft, significantly expanding the geography of flights.

Thus, one of the most interesting facts in the airport's history is its complete "rebirth". It was not merely reconstructed but built from scratch in a new location, symbolising the transition from an old era to a new one, more dynamic and open to the world. The old Xiguan Airport was closed and dismantled, freeing up valuable land for urban development, while its IATA code (HZG) was transferred to the new Chenggu Airport.

Hanzhong Airport (HZG) offers passengers a wide range of services to make their stay as comfortable and convenient as possible. In the terminal, you will find several cafes and restaurants where you can have a quick snack or a full meal, enjoying dishes of local and international cuisine. Additionally, there are shops offering souvenirs, travel essentials, and press.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Numerous charging stations for mobile devices are located throughout the terminal. Passengers who value comfort can utilise premium waiting lounges or VIP halls, where one can relax in a quiet atmosphere before departure.

The airport provides all necessary financial services: you will easily find ATMs and currency exchange points. To ensure the safety and health of passengers, a medical centre operates around the clock within the terminal, ready to provide first aid if necessary.

Hanzhong Airport cares for all categories of travellers. Special mother and child rooms are equipped for families with small children. Passengers with disabilities are provided with comprehensive support, including accompaniment, provision of wheelchairs, and access to specially equipped infrastructure such as ramps, lifts, and restrooms.

For business travellers, business centres and conference rooms for meetings may be available. If you have an early flight or a long layover, you can stay at one of the hotels located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, which is very convenient for transit passengers.

When planning a flight through Hanzhong Airport (HZG), you will find several options for a snack or a full lunch. Although the selection here is not as extensive as in international hubs, you certainly won't go hungry.

The main part of the catering establishments is located in the departure zone, after passing passport control and security screening (airside). In the public area (landside), the choice is usually more modest and may be limited to a small cafe or vending machines with snacks.

What you can find at the airport:

• Chinese Restaurants: Typically, at least one restaurant serving hot meals operates in the airport. Here you can order noodles, rice with various toppings, dumplings, or soups. This is a good option for those who have time for a leisurely lunch or dinner before departure.
• Cafes and Fast Food: Local equivalents of fast food are ideal for a quick bite. Look out for steamed buns (baozi), Chinese-style sandwiches (roujiamo), or noodle soups that are prepared in a few minutes. You can also find coffee shops serving standard hot and cold beverages, as well as pastries.
• Shops and Kiosks: Small shops always have packaged snacks, crisps, chocolate, nuts, and drinks available.

Cuisine Features and Dietary Restrictions:

The assortment is mainly represented by dishes of local and general Chinese cuisine. Finding specialised options, such as vegetarian, vegan, Halal, or gluten-free dishes, will be very difficult. If you have strict dietary requirements, it is recommended to bring food with you. Vegetarians may try to clarify if it is possible to prepare rice or noodles with vegetables only, but one should be prepared for a language barrier.

Prices and Opening Hours:

Prices at the airport are traditionally higher than in the city but remain at a moderate level. Most cafes and restaurants operate in accordance with the flight schedule — opening in the morning and closing after the departure of the last aircraft. At night, almost all establishments may be closed.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Hanzhong city is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible, make use of our useful tips. These recommendations will help you orient yourself on-site and avoid unforeseen situations during flights across China.

Arrival Time at the Airport: We advise arriving at the airport well in advance. For domestic flights, allow at least 2 hours before departure. This time buffer will allow you to calmly complete check-in, drop off baggage, and pass through security without rushing.

Check-in and Security Control: If possible, check in for your flight online — this will save you time at the airport. Keep your ID (or passport) and boarding pass ready. Please note that security checks at Chinese airports can be very thorough. Be prepared to be asked to switch on electronic devices or remove them from their cases.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane: When choosing a seat, be guided by your preferences. Seats by the window are ideal for those who love to admire views during take-off and landing. Seats by the aisle are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight without disturbing neighbours. Families with children often find the front part of the cabin most convenient.

Hand Luggage: Standard rules for carrying liquids (up to 100 ml in one container) apply to domestic flights as well. Pay special attention to portable chargers (power banks) — they can be carried only in hand luggage, and the capacity marking must be clearly visible on the casing. Carrying lighters and matches is generally prohibited.

Passengers with Transfers: If you have a connecting flight in Hanzhong, follow the "Transfer" signs. You will likely have to pass through security control again. Be sure to check the information board — your boarding gate number may have changed.

Saving Time and Money: To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it at drinking fountains after the security zone. Research transfer options to the city in advance — often online pre-booking works out cheaper. To save time, use online check-in and keep all documents to hand.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, the first thing to do is contact your airline's counter for information. Depending on the length of the delay, the carrier may provide vouchers for food and drinks. Use the free time to rest, charge your gadgets, or take a walk through the shops.