Heihe Airport

Welcome to the air gateway located in the very north of China, on the banks of the majestic Amur River. Heihe Aihui Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a welcoming entry point to a region where the cultures of two neighbouring countries intertwine in a fascinating way. Thanks to recent modernisation and its compact size, this airport offers travellers an atmosphere of tranquillity and an absence of the hustle and bustle typical of megacities, making it the perfect starting point for exploring Heilongjiang Province.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of Heihe Airport is its compactness and convenience. Unlike giant hubs, everything here is within walking distance: you can get from the check-in counters to the boarding gate in a matter of minutes. This allows passengers to spend minimal time on formalities and avoid the stress associated with long queues. Intuitive navigation makes the airport user-friendly even for those who do not speak Chinese.

Following a large-scale reconstruction, the airport has acquired modern infrastructure that meets all standards of safety and comfort. The new terminal is equipped with comfortable waiting areas and updated baggage handling systems. Despite its status as a regional airport, a high level of service is maintained here, ensuring a pleasant start or end to your journey.

Another important feature is its strategic location. The airport serves as a key link not only with major Chinese cities such as Harbin and Beijing but is also an important point for cross-border tourism. Its proximity to the city centre and the river port allows tourists to quickly reach customs and the crossing, making Heihe Aihui a convenient transit point for travellers heading to Russia or returning from there.

• Official Website: At the time of the last update, there is no separate website for Heihe Airport. Information can be found on the Heilongjiang Airport Management Group website: www.hljairport.com.cn.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +86 456 822 66 88 (for calls from outside China) or 0456-8226688 (for calls within China).
• Address: Aihui District, Heihe, Heilongjiang, China.
• Email: An official email address for general inquiries is generally not published. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Social Media: The airport does not have official pages on popular international social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you must contact your airline's representative at the airport directly. Staff at the information desk can provide their contact details.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information, please use the airport inquiry service phone number. For questions regarding booking, ticket changes, or flight status, you should contact your airline.

Getting to Heihe Airport (HEK) from the centre of Heihe is quite simple, as it is located relatively close to the city. Travellers have several transport options available, varying in cost, speed, and comfort level. When planning your trip, you can choose the method that suits you best.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly way to reach the airport. City buses run from the city centre to the terminal. The fare is usually only 1-2 Yuan, making it the most affordable option. Although it is not the fastest method (the journey may take about 40-50 minutes), it allows for significant savings. It is recommended to check the schedule and exact route number on-site, as they may change. This option is ideal for travellers without a large amount of luggage.

Taxi or Transfer are the most convenient and fastest methods. A taxi ride from the centre of Heihe to the airport will take approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost of the trip is usually around 40-60 Yuan. Cars can be found at designated stands in the city or booked via an app. This is an excellent choice for those who value comfort, are travelling with family, have heavy luggage, or are departing early in the morning or late at night.

For those who prefer complete freedom of movement around China, car rental is a good solution. There are rental agencies in the city where you can hire a car for any duration. This will allow you not only to reach the airport comfortably but also to explore the surroundings. Heihe Airport provides parking where you can leave both rental and private vehicles for the duration of your trip.

Heihe Airport (HEK) is a compact and modern regional airport serving domestic flights. Its structure is simple and clear, making your stay here comfortable even for those travelling in China for the first time.

The airport complex consists of one passenger terminal, which serves both departing and arriving passengers. Thanks to this, you do not have to worry about long transfers between different buildings — all necessary zones are under one roof. The terminal building is generally two storeys high, with a logical separation of flows.

The terminal layout is intuitive. On the first floor, you will typically find flight check-in counters and the arrivals area with baggage claim belts. Exits to city transport and taxis are also located here. Going up to the second floor, passengers enter the pre-flight security check area, after which they find themselves in the "airside" area — the departure lounge with boarding gates.

Check-in and security procedures at Heihe Airport are quite quick due to the low passenger traffic. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage without rushing, pass through security control, and find your boarding gate.

For ease of navigation, signs in Chinese and English are installed throughout the terminal. The airport layout is simple, so it is practically impossible to get lost here. Airport staff are generally helpful and ready to assist passengers should any questions arise.

The history of Heihe Airport (HEK) is a story of growth and modernisation, reflecting the development of the entire region. The modern airport, known as Heihe Aihui, opened its doors to passengers on 30 August 2003. It was built at a new location to replace the old airfield, which could no longer cope with the city's growing needs.

The predecessor of the current airport had a long history, beginning back in the 1930s as a military airfield. From 1958, it began serving civil flights as well, but its infrastructure was limited. The decision to build a new modern airport complex was a key step for the economic and tourism development of Heihe and all of northern China.

Construction of the new airport began in 2000 and was completed in just three years. From the very beginning, it was conceived as an important transport hub promoting stronger ties with neighbouring Russia. Its strategic location near the border made it an air gateway for tourists and business people heading to both countries.

To meet the constantly growing passenger traffic, the airport underwent large-scale reconstruction and expansion, completed at the end of 2023. As part of this project, a new modern terminal was built, the runway was extended to 2800 metres, and the number of aircraft parking stands was increased. Thanks to this modernisation, the airport's capacity has grown to 1 million passengers per year, opening up new opportunities for launching more flights.

Today, Heihe Airport is not just a transport facility but a symbol of the city's dynamic development. An interesting fact: its name "Aihui" reflects the name of the historical district where the Treaty of Aigun was signed. The airport continues to play a key role in international connections, being one of the most important aviation hubs in the northeast of the country.

Heihe Airport (HEK), being an important regional transport hub, offers passengers a range of essential services necessary for a comfortable journey. The terminal infrastructure is designed to ensure convenience for both arrivals and departures.

Dining and Shopping. Inside the terminal building, there are several cafés and snack bars where you can have a quick bite or a hot drink while waiting for your flight. The assortment mainly includes local cuisine and popular snacks. There are also small shops offering souvenirs, travel essentials, and regional products.

Waiting Areas and Internet. General waiting halls with ample seating are provided for passengers. Charging stations for electronic devices are available throughout the terminal. Passengers can use free Wi-Fi, though access may require SMS verification. For business class passengers or loyalty programme members, VIP lounges with a higher level of comfort may be available.

Financial and Medical Services. ATMs for cash withdrawals are installed within the airport territory. Please note that currency exchange points may be absent, so it is recommended to exchange money in the city beforehand. In case of need, a medical point operates in the terminal to provide first aid.

Services for Special Categories of Passengers. The airport is adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, specially equipped toilets, and the option to request staff assistance. For families with small children, mother and child rooms are provided.

Business Services and Hotels. There are no specialised conference halls or business centres at the airport. Hotels are not present directly on the airport premises; however, many accommodation options can be found in the city of Heihe itself, which is easily accessible by taxi.

Heihe Airport (HEK) is a small regional aviation hub, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite modest, yet sufficient for a snack before departure. The main food outlets are concentrated in the main hall of the terminal, usually before the security control zone (landside), so it is better to eat in advance.

For a full lunch or dinner at the airport, there is usually one or two establishments in a café or small restaurant format. The menu here will most likely consist of popular dishes of Chinese cuisine, specifically the Northeastern Dongbei region. This is a good opportunity to try authentic noodles in broth, fried rice, or famous Chinese dumplings (jiaozi). This is the best option for those who want a hearty meal while waiting for a flight.

If time is limited, you can use the services of small kiosks or vending machines with snacks. They sell packaged sandwiches, pastries, crisps, chocolate, as well as bottled water, tea, and coffee. This is an ideal choice for a quick snack, which you can take with you on board the aircraft if permitted by airline regulations.

Prices in Heihe Airport establishments are generally moderate compared to large international hubs. Opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule: cafés open a few hours before the first departure and close after the last one leaves. It is important to note that finding specialised meals — such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal options — will be very difficult here. Passengers with strict dietary requirements are advised to bring necessary snacks with them.

To ensure your journey through Heihe Airport goes smoothly and without unnecessary hassle, make use of our tips. These recommendations will help you navigate the airport, save time, and make your flight more comfortable.

Arrival Time: We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2–2.5 hours before departure for domestic destinations and 3 hours before international flights. This time will be sufficient for a calm passage through all pre-flight formalities, including check-in, baggage drop, and security screening.

Check-in and Security: To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website if such an option is available. Security checkpoints at Chinese airports can be very thorough. Be prepared in advance to remove laptops, tablets, power banks, and liquid containers from your hand luggage.

Seat Selection: If you have the opportunity to choose a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. Window seats (A, F) offer beautiful views during take-off and landing. Aisle seats (C, D) allow you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. For those who wish to leave the aircraft faster, seats in the front part of the cabin are suitable.

Hand Luggage: Standard rules allow carrying liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Pay special attention to the carriage of external batteries (power banks) and lithium batteries — in China, they are permitted only in hand luggage, and their capacity must not exceed the limits established by the airline.

Transfer Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, clarify when checking in your luggage whether you need to collect it in Heihe or if it is checked through to the final destination. In the transit zone, follow signs for "Transfer/Transfers". Be prepared that you may need to undergo additional security control.

Customs Control: Upon arrival from abroad, you will need to pass through customs control. Large sums of cash, expensive goods, and certain categories of food products are subject to declaration. If you are flying on a domestic flight, this procedure is not required.

Saving Time and Money: Online check-in and travelling with hand luggage only are the best ways to save time. To reduce expenses, bring an empty reusable water bottle (it can be filled at special fountains after security) and light snacks from home.

Flight Delays: In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, strictly maintain your composure. Monitor information on the departure boards and contact your airline's representative counter. Depending on the duration of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Be sure to keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses.