Zhijiang Airport

Zhijiang Airport is more than just a transport hub; it is a true aerial gateway to the picturesque mountain world of Hunan Province. Nestled amidst green hills and rice terraces, this small yet cosy airport welcomes travellers with an atmosphere of tranquillity that is so rare in giant aviation hubs. Here, history intertwines with modernity: built on the site of a legendary World War II military airfield, today it serves as a starting point for peaceful discoveries and journeys through colourful China.

Airport Features and Advantages:

The main advantage of Zhijiang Airport is its compactness and convenience. Thanks to the small size of the terminal, all pre-flight formalities are completed here much faster than in major airports. Passengers do not need to cover huge distances from the check-in counter to the boarding gate, making the journey less tiring and more predictable in terms of time.

A unique feature of the airport is its historical significance. It is located in the immediate vicinity of a memorial complex dedicated to the victory in the war and the history of the "Flying Tigers". This allows tourists to combine their arrival with a cultural programme without venturing far from the terminal. The airport territory itself has been modernised and, despite its modest scale, offers passengers essential basic amenities, including comfortable waiting areas and clear navigation.

To contact representatives of Zhijiang Airport (HJJ), you may use the following contact details. Please note that for the most accurate and up-to-date information, especially regarding flight schedules, it is recommended to call.

• Official Website: At present, Zhijiang Airport does not have a separate official website. It is best to check up-to-date information on flight status on the websites of the airlines serving the airport.
• Information Desk Phone: +86 745 683 8888. This is the main number for obtaining information on all matters related to airport operations.
• Airport Address: Zhijiang Dong Autonomous County, Huaihua, Hunan, China (Zhijiang Dong Autonomous County, Huaihua City, Hunan Province, China).
• Email: An official email address for passengers is not published. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official accounts on international social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you should primarily contact your airline's Lost & Found service. Contact details can be clarified via the main airport telephone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For on-site assistance, please approach the information desks in the terminal or call the general enquiry number.

Zhijiang Airport (HJJ) is located approximately 31 kilometres from the city centre of Huaihua, so it is important to plan your route in advance. You can reach the terminal in several ways, each having its own advantages depending on your budget, time, and preferences.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly option. Special shuttle buses run between the airport and key points in the city, including the central bus station and railway stations. This is a convenient and inexpensive method; the trip costs approximately 20-25 CNY. The journey may take about 60-80 minutes due to stops along the way. Shuttle schedules are usually coordinated with flight arrivals and departures, but it is better to verify current information in advance.

Taxi and Transfers offer significantly more comfort and speed. A taxi ride from the centre of Huaihua to the airport will take approximately 40-60 minutes depending on traffic conditions, and the cost will be roughly 80–120 CNY. This is an ideal choice if you are travelling with large luggage or in a group. Car-hailing apps are also popular in China. For maximum peace of mind, you can pre-book a private transfer that will meet you at a specified location and take you directly to the terminal.

Car Rental is an excellent option for those who value independence and plan to explore not only the city but also the scenic surroundings of Hunan Province. Car rental points are available both in the city and at the airport. Please note that foreign citizens generally require a local driving licence to drive in China. It is recommended to book a car online in advance.

For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, parking is provided. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking. Rates depend on the duration of parking, so for long trips, it is worth checking prices on the official airport resources or upon arrival.

Zhijiang Airport (HJJ) is a modern and compact aviation hub serving the city of Huaihua and its surroundings. Its structure is simple and convenient for passengers, making the travel process as comfortable as possible.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves all domestic flights. Thanks to this, you do not have to worry about complex transfers or searching for the right building—all processes, from check-in to boarding, take place in one location. The terminal layout is intuitive: typically, the departure area with check-in counters and security checkpoints is located on one level, while the arrival area with baggage claim is on another or in a separate part of the same floor.

Departure and arrival zones are clearly demarcated. In the departure zone, you will find check-in counters, the security control point, and boarding gates. The arrival zone includes baggage carousels and the exit to the city, where you can find taxis or other transport. Navigation through the terminal is facilitated by clear signage in Chinese and English.

Completing all pre-flight formalities usually does not take much time. Flight check-in and security screening take on average from 30 to 45 minutes, however, during peak hours or holidays, waiting times may increase. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight to go through all procedures without haste.

The history of Zhijiang Airport (HJJ) is unique and closely intertwined with key events of the 20th century in China. Unlike many civil airports, its roots go back to a military past. Construction of the airfield began in December 1936, and initially, it served as a small airbase for the Kuomintang Air Force. With the outbreak of World War II, its strategic importance increased dramatically.

In 1943-1944, the airfield was significantly expanded by Allied forces, specifically the US Air Force. It became one of the largest forward airbases in southwest China and home to the famous "Flying Tigers" under the command of General Claire Lee Chennault. Numerous combat sorties were launched from here against Japanese forces, playing a vital role in military operations in the Asia-Pacific theatre.

The most significant event in the airport's history was the ceremony of Japan's surrender acceptance. It was here, in Zhijiang, on 21-23 August 1945, that Japanese representatives officially handed over the act of surrender to the Chinese side. This event occurred before the main ceremony in Tokyo Bay and became a symbol of the end of World War II in mainland China. Today, a memorial complex located near the airport serves as a reminder of this, attracting many tourists and historians.

After the war, the airfield fell into disuse for a long time. A new life began for it in the 21st century. In December 2003, a project was launched to reconstruct and transform the former military facility into a modern civil airport to serve the city of Huaihua and the entire region. Nearly two years later, on 19 September 2005, the renovated Zhijiang Airport welcomed its first commercial flight.

Today, Zhijiang Airport is not only an important transport hub linking the western part of Hunan Province with the rest of the country but also a living historical monument. It successfully combines the functions of a modern aviation hub and a memorial site, offering travellers a unique opportunity to touch the past immediately upon landing.

Zhijiang Airport (HJJ) provides passengers with all the essential services necessary for a comfortable wait before departure. Despite its compact size, the terminal is well-organised and offers travellers the opportunity to rest and attend to urgent matters before their flight.

Several cafés and eateries operate within the airport, where you can sample local Chinese dishes or have a cup of coffee. There are also small shops selling souvenirs, travel necessities, beverages, and snacks for the journey. The selection may not be as extensive as in major hubs, but you can find everything you need.

For those who value enhanced comfort, VIP lounges are available. Here, passengers can relax in comfortable armchairs away from the general bustle, enjoying complimentary beverages and light snacks. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging points with sockets and USB ports for mobile devices are installed in the waiting areas.

Banking services are mainly represented by ATMs. Currency exchange points may be absent, so it is recommended to arrange currency exchange in advance. A medical centre is available at the airport to provide first aid. Mother and child rooms are equipped for passengers with small children.

The airport is fully adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility: ramps, lifts, and specially equipped restrooms are available. If necessary, you can request assistance and a wheelchair from the airline in advance.

There are no hotels directly within the airport building, but many accommodation options can be found in the nearby city of Huaihua. Specialised business centres and conference rooms are also absent at the airport; for business events, it is better to use the infrastructure of city hotels.

Zhijiang Airport (HJJ) offers passengers basic dining options consistent with the status of a regional airport. The selection here is not as wide as in major international hubs, but it is quite sufficient for a snack before departure or after arrival.

Most dining establishments are located in the general hall before security control (landside). Here, you can usually find small cafés offering a standard set of dishes: instant noodles, sandwiches, pastries, and beverages such as tea, coffee, and juices. After passing through security (airside) in the departure zone, the choice is typically more limited and may be reduced to one or two kiosks with snacks and drinks.

Since the airport is located in Hunan Province, elements of Hunan cuisine, known for its spicy and piquant flavours, can be found on the menus of local cafés. If you wish to eat quickly and filling, look for traditional Chinese dishes such as noodle soup or steamed buns (baozi). This is an excellent option for a substantial, albeit quick, lunch.

Finding specialised dietary options, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free dishes, may be difficult at Zhijiang Airport. It is recommended to arrange your own snacks in advance if you have strict dietary restrictions. Prices at the airport are traditionally higher than in the city but remain within reasonable limits for an air terminal. Opening hours of establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule, ensuring service for passengers on morning and evening flights.

To ensure your journey through Zhijiang Airport goes as smoothly and comfortably as possible, we have prepared a few useful tips. By following these recommendations, you can save time and stress, making the start or end of your trip to Huaihua pleasant.

Planning and Arrival at the Airport. Try to arrive at the airport well in advance. For domestic flights within China, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure, and for international flights (if scheduled) — at least 3 hours prior. To save time, use the online check-in service on your airline's website. This will allow you to proceed directly to baggage drop or, if travelling light, to the security checkpoint.

Check-in and Security. Have your passport and ticket ready at the check-in counters. Security screening procedures in Chinese airports can be quite strict. Remove laptops, tablets, and power banks from your hand luggage in advance. Liquids up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag. Following the rules clearly will help you pass security control faster.

Hand Luggage Rules. Pay special attention to carrying batteries and power banks: they are transported only in hand luggage, and must have clear markings indicating their capacity. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, flammable substances, and liquids in containers exceeding 100 ml in the cabin. Always check the current rules on your airline's website.

Seat Selection and Transfers. If it is possible to choose a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. Window seats offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, while aisle seats provide more legroom and the freedom to stand up easily. Passengers with transfers should clarify in advance whether luggage needs to be collected at the transit airport and leave a sufficient time margin between flights — at least 2 hours.

Customs Control and Unforeseen Situations. When passing through customs, keep all necessary documents ready, including a completed declaration form if required. In case of flight delay or cancellation, immediately contact your airline representative. They are obliged to provide information on the flight status, and for long delays — provide meals and, if necessary, hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses to claim compensation later.