Mudan

Heze Mudan Airport is a modern and dynamically developing transport hub that has opened up direct air connections between the city of Heze, the famous "Peony Capital" of China, and the country's largest metropolises. Its architecture, inspired by the delicate petals of a peony, symbolises the hospitality and cultural richness of the region. Since its opening in 2021, the airport has quickly become a significant factor in the economic growth and tourism appeal of Shandong Province, offering passengers a high level of comfort and efficiency.

The main advantage of Mudan Airport is its novelty and modern equipment. Having been built very recently, it is designed taking into account all contemporary requirements for passenger comfort and safety. The spacious and bright terminal features intuitive navigation, making it easy to find your way around, even for first-time visitors. Travellers have access to comfortable waiting lounges, several cafés and shops, as well as free Wi-Fi throughout the premises.

The airport serves flights to key domestic destinations, connecting Heze with cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Chengdu. Transport connections to the city centre are well-established: you can reach Heze via dedicated shuttle buses or taxis. This makes Mudan Airport a convenient starting point for exploring the cultural heritage and natural beauty of Shandong Province.

• Official Website: Generally, up-to-date information can be found on the airport's official website. At the time of writing, this is http://www.hzairport.net/ (may be available in Chinese only).
• Inquiry Service Phone: For real-time information regarding flights, services, and airport regulations, you may call: +86 0530-5700000.
• Airport Address: China, Shandong Province, Heze City, Dingtao District.
• Email: Airports in China rarely provide a public email for general communication. It is recommended to use the telephone for urgent enquiries.
• Social Media: Main communication channels may be present on platforms popular in China, such as WeChat. Links to official accounts are usually posted on the airport's website.
• Lost and Found: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, please contact the Lost and Found service immediately via the main airport information number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all enquiries related to your journey through Heze Airport, please contact the unified inquiry service at +86 0530-5700000.

Getting to Mudan Airport (Heze Mudan Airport, HZA) from the city centre of Heze is quite simple, as it is located relatively nearby. Travellers can choose the most convenient method depending on their budget, time, and personal preferences. Generally, the journey from the central part of the city takes between 30 to 60 minutes.

Public Transport is the most economical option. Typically, specialised shuttle buses run from the airport to key districts of the city. They connect the airport with the bus station and the centre of Heze. This is an excellent choice for budget travellers and those travelling light. The bus journey may take about an hour due to stops, but the ticket cost is minimal. It is recommended to check the schedule in advance, as it may vary depending on the time of day and day of the week.

Taxi or Private Transfer offers the best combination of speed and comfort. A taxi ride from the city centre to the airport will take approximately 30-40 minutes, traffic permitting. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus but remains quite affordable. For added convenience, especially if you do not speak Chinese, you can book a transfer in advance through your hotel or an online service. Taxi-hailing apps, such as DiDi, are also popular in China.

Car Rental is an ideal option for those planning not only to visit Heze but also to explore the surrounding areas of Shandong Province. Rental company counters operate at the airport and in the city. Having your own transport provides maximum freedom of movement. Mudan Airport provides parking facilities where you can leave a vehicle for both short and long periods, which is convenient for those arriving in their own car.

When planning your trip, it is worth considering that there are other airports in the region. Depending on your route, it might be convenient to fly into Jining Airport (JNG) or the larger international hub — Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport (CGO). From these cities, you can reach Heze by high-speed train or intercity bus.

Heze Mudan Airport (HZA) is a modern regional aviation hub opened in 2021. The airport infrastructure consists of one passenger terminal with an area of approximately 11,000 square metres. The compact size of the building and the intuitive layout make navigation here extremely simple and convenient for travellers.

The terminal primarily serves domestic flights within China, connecting Heze with major cities such as Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Chengdu. The building is equipped with modern facilities, including four aerobridges, allowing passengers to board and disembark directly from the building, bypassing the need to walk on the apron in most cases.

The flow of passengers inside the terminal is organised in a classic manner for smaller airports. The Departures zone includes check-in counters located in the main hall, security checkpoints, and a sterile waiting area with boarding gates. The Arrivals zone is located in a separate sector, housing baggage claim belts and the exit to the city. Thanks to well-thought-out logistics, the path from the airport entrance to the gate takes minimal time.

Features of the Heze Mudan terminal:

• Navigation: Signs are duplicated in English, simplifying orientation for international tourists. Electronic boards clearly display flight status information.
• Services: While waiting for departure, passengers can use basic services: gadget charging points, hot water dispensers (free of charge, as is standard in China), small shops with travel essentials and souvenirs, as well as cafés.
• Comfort: The building is notable for its novelty, cleanliness, and modern design, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Check-in and security procedures at Heze Airport are quite fast due to the absence of the massive queues typical of capital hubs. Nevertheless, security standards in China are strict. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5 hours before departure to calmly check in luggage and pass pre-flight control.

The history of Heze Mudan Airport (HZA) is a story of modern construction and rapid development. Unlike many airports with a century-long history, this transport hub is one of the youngest in China, making it an example of the latest technologies in aviation infrastructure. Its story is not one of decades of evolution, but of a swift project implemented to improve transport accessibility for the city of Heze and the entire south-western region of Shandong Province.

The construction of the airport marked an important stage in the region's development. The project was launched in 2018, and as early as April 2, 2021, Heze Mudan Airport officially opened and welcomed its first flight. This event was a pivotal moment for the city, which previously did not have its own air connection. Since the airport was built from scratch, it was designed from the outset taking into account all modern requirements for safety, passenger comfort, and efficiency.

One of the most interesting features of the airport is its name and architectural concept. "Mudan" (牡丹) translates from Chinese as "peony". The city of Heze is famous as the "Peony Capital of China", and this flower is its main symbol. The terminal's design is inspired by the image of a blooming peony, elegantly reflecting the region's cultural heritage.

At present, the history of Heze Mudan Airport is just beginning. It does not have significant reconstructions or historical upheavals behind it, as it is the embodiment of modernity. Its main achievement is its very creation, which has opened new horizons for tourism, logistics, and economic growth for Heze. With each passing year, passenger traffic grows, and the airport continues to write its history, contributing to the future prosperity of the "City of Peonies".

Heze Mudan Airport (HZA) is a modern and convenient transport hub offering passengers all necessary services for a comfortable journey. While waiting for your flight, you can have a snack in one of the cafés or restaurants offering both local dishes and familiar snacks. Shops are also available in the terminal where you can purchase souvenirs, travel essentials, or products for which the city of Heze is famous.

For the convenience of passengers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices are installed in the waiting halls. In addition to general areas, comfortable VIP lounges are available for business class passengers and airline loyalty programme members, where one can relax in a quieter atmosphere and utilise additional services.

The airport cares for all categories of travellers. Specially equipped mother and child rooms are provided for families with children. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on a barrier-free environment: the terminal has ramps, lifts, and adapted restrooms, and staff are ready to provide necessary assistance. A medical point is available at the airport to provide first aid if needed.

ATMs are installed in the terminal for cash withdrawals. Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, suitable accommodation can easily be found in the immediate vicinity and in the city itself. For business travellers, basic business services may be available in the VIP lounges. Heze Airport is an important transport hub for those travelling across China.

At Heze Mudan Airport (HZA), travellers can find several options to grab a bite before departure or upon arrival. Like many regional airports in China, the main focus here is on local cuisine and quick-service establishments, allowing passengers to refresh themselves without spending much time.

Most cafés and restaurants are concentrated in the main terminal. In the public area (landside), before passing pre-flight security, small cafés operate. This is a convenient place for those seeing off or meeting passengers to have a cup of tea or coffee and a light snack. After passing security control, in the sterile area (airside), the selection becomes slightly wider. Here you can find establishments where you can have a full lunch while waiting for your flight.

The menu mainly offers popular Chinese dishes. For a quick snack, steamed baozi buns, jiaozi dumplings, or sandwiches are excellent choices. If you have time for a full meal, look for hearty noodle soups or set meals, which usually include rice, a meat or vegetable dish, and a small side. Sometimes the menu features dishes characteristic of Shandong Province, where the city of Heze is located.

Passengers with special dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free diet) may find it challenging to find certified dishes. It is recommended to check the ingredients with staff in advance or carry familiar snacks with you. The operating hours of most catering establishments are tied to the flight schedule: they open a few hours before the first departure and close after the last one leaves. Please note that prices at the airport are traditionally higher than in the city.

To ensure your journey through Mudan Airport in Heze goes as smoothly as possible, we have prepared some useful tips. These recommendations will help you save time, stress, and money.

Arrival Time. For domestic flights within China, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2–2.5 hours before departure. If you have an international connecting flight, it is better to arrive 3–4 hours early. This time is sufficient to calmly pass all formalities without rushing, even during peak hours.

Check-in and Security Control. To speed up the process, check in for your flight online if your airline offers this option. At security control, have your passport and boarding pass ready. All electronics (laptops, tablets) and liquids must be removed from your hand luggage. Remember that security checks at Chinese airports can be very thorough.

Seat Selection. If it is possible to choose a seat in advance, take advantage of it. Window seats are great for those who enjoy the views, especially during take-off and landing. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight or want a little more legroom.

Hand Luggage. You can and should carry documents, money, gadgets, fragile items, and necessary medication in your hand luggage. It is strictly forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml. Pay special attention to portable chargers (power banks) — they can only be carried in hand luggage, and they must have clear markings indicating capacity (usually up to 100-160 Wh). Lighters and matches are often completely prohibited in both hand luggage and checked baggage.

Connecting Passengers. If you have a connecting flight, check with the airline in advance whether your luggage will be transferred automatically or if you need to collect and re-check it. Leave sufficient time between flights — a minimum of 1.5–2 hours for domestic transfers.

Customs Control. For international flights, you will need to pass customs control. Familiarise yourself with China's customs regulations in advance to know which goods and in what quantities can be imported and exported, as well as what amounts of currency must be declared.

Saving Time and Money. Besides online check-in, travelling light with only hand luggage helps save time. To avoid overpaying, bring an empty water bottle (it can be filled after security checks at free hot/cold water dispensers) and light snacks. Prices for food and drinks at airports are always higher.

Flight Delays. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative first. Depending on the duration of the wait, you may be offered vouchers for food, drinks, or even hotel accommodation. It is useful to have a book or a charged tablet with you to pass the time.