Jinchuan Airport

Jinchuan Airport (JIC) is the modern aerial gateway to the "Nickel Capital" of China, the city of Jinchang. Located in Gansu Province, it serves as a key transport hub for industrial and business tourism in the region. Despite its modest size, the airport plays a vital role in connecting this industrial centre with the country's largest metropolises, providing fast and convenient access to the famous Hexi Corridor — an ancient section of the Great Silk Road.

The main feature of Jinchuan Airport is its efficiency and compactness. Travellers will not have to spend much time passing through controls and check-in, which is particularly valuable for business trips. The terminal is equipped with everything necessary for waiting comfortably for a flight: there are rest areas, small cafes, and shops. The airport primarily serves domestic flights, linking Jinchang with major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, and Chengdu. Thanks to its strategic location, it is a convenient starting point for those planning to explore not only industrial sites but also the natural beauty of Gansu Province.

Below you will find contact information for Jinchuan Airport (JIC). Please note that for regional airports, some data may only be available through the management company or airlines.

• Official Airport Website: Generally, regional airports in China do not have a separate website. Information can be found on the Gansu Airport Group management company website: www.gsairport.com.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +86 935 833 3000. It is recommended to verify the number's validity with your airline before calling.
• Airport Address: Jinchuan District, Jinchang, Gansu, China, 737100.
• Email: A specialised email address for general inquiries is usually not provided. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Airport Social Media: Separate accounts for Jinchang airport are unlikely. Follow news on the official pages of Gansu Airport Group on Chinese social networks (e.g., Weibo).
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, you should contact your airline's baggage tracing service directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For questions related to tickets, flight schedules, and carriage regulations, please contact your airline's support service. For questions regarding terminal operations, you may call the general airport phone number.

Jinchuan Airport (JIC) is located near the city of Jinchang, making the journey there quick and convenient. Travellers can choose from several transport options based on their budget, amount of luggage, and personal preferences.

Public Transport is the most economical way to get to the airport. Special shuttle buses run regularly between the airport and key points in the city, including the centre and major hotels. This is an excellent choice for those travelling light. It is recommended to check the exact schedule and routes locally, for example, at your hotel or at the information desk in the airport. There are no trains or metro services to the airport.

Taxi or Pre-booked Transfer is the most comfortable and fastest option. The trip from the centre of Jinchang to the airport will take approximately 20–30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Official taxi stands are located at the exit of the arrivals terminal. Although more expensive than the bus, a taxi ensures convenience, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with family.

Car Rental offers maximum freedom of movement if you plan to explore not only the city but also its surroundings. Counters for international and local rental companies can be found in the arrivals hall. It is important to remember that to drive a car in China, foreign citizens generally require a Chinese driving licence. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the tourist season.

For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is provided. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking. Rates depend on the duration of parking, making it a convenient option for those seeing someone off or leaving their car for the duration of a trip.

Jinchuan Airport (JIC) is a small regional air hub serving the city of Jinchang and the surrounding areas in Gansu Province. Thanks to its compact size, the airport features a simple and intuitive structure, making navigation here as comfortable as possible for travellers.

The airport operates with one passenger terminal. It primarily serves domestic flights linking the region with major transport hubs in China, such as Lanzhou, Xi'an, and Beijing. Since there is only one terminal, passengers do not need to worry about complex transfers or using shuttles between buildings.

The terminal layout is classic and convenient:

• Departure Zone: Located immediately after entering the building. Here you will find airline check-in counters and security checkpoints. The departure lounge is small but equipped with a sufficient number of seats.
• Arrival Zone: Located in the same building. The path from the aircraft steps to the baggage claim area takes just a few minutes. There is generally only one baggage claim belt, which eliminates confusion.

One of the main features of the Jinchuan Airport terminal is the speed of service. Due to moderate passenger traffic, queues here are a rare occurrence. Passing through check-in and pre-flight security usually takes from 20 to 40 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance, approximately 1.5 hours before departure, to calmly check in luggage and complete all formalities.

Navigation inside the building is extremely simple. Signs in Chinese and English will help you quickly find the boarding gate, restrooms, or information desk. It is practically impossible to get lost here, as all key zones are within direct line of sight.

Jinchuan Airport (JIC) is a modern transport hub whose history does not span decades but is closely linked to the economic development of the region. Located in the urban prefecture of Jinchang, it has become a vital aerial gateway for the "Nickel Capital" of China. The official opening of the airport took place on 29 August 2011, marking a new era in the city's transport accessibility.

The decision to construct the airport was part of a national plan for infrastructure development. Work began in April 2009 and was completed in a relatively short time. The project was implemented to stimulate the local economy, tourism, and improve connections with the country's major cities. From the very beginning, the airport was designed as a modern complex capable of serving domestic flights.

Since its opening, Jinchuan Airport has played a key role in logistics and passenger transport. Its main task is to ensure convenient connections for business travellers associated with the city's industrial enterprises, and for tourists wishing to experience the unique culture and nature of Gansu Province. Although the airport cannot boast a century-long history or participation in significant world events, its main achievement is its stable operation and contribution to the prosperity of Jinchang.

An interesting fact: the airport was built as part of the 11th Five-Year Plan (2006–2010), highlighting its strategic importance to the state. Being relatively young, Jinchuan has not undergone massive reconstructions, as its infrastructure initially met modern standards. Its history is an example of how targeted investment in the transport network can radically change the life of an entire city, opening it up to the rest of the world.

Jinchuan Airport (JIC) is a compact regional air hub where travellers are provided with a basic set of services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Since the airport is small, the range of amenities is appropriate: do not expect large shopping areas or a variety of restaurants. Instead, the terminal has a cosy waiting lounge, and you can have a snack and drink coffee in a small cafe or use vending machines with drinks and snacks.

Despite its modest size, the airport meets modern requirements for passenger comfort. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, helping you stay connected. Also, for the convenience of travellers, charging stations for mobile devices are provided, so you can recharge your phone or tablet before departure.

The airport cares for all categories of passengers. A mother and child room is equipped for travellers with children. In addition, an accessible environment has been created for people with reduced mobility, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms. If necessary, an assistance service can be requested in advance.

This airport is the key aerial gateway for the city of Jinchang and a convenient starting point for travels in this part of China, offering everything essential to begin or end your journey.

At Jinchuan Airport (JIC), passengers can find several options for a snack or a full meal, oriented primarily towards Chinese cuisine. The selection of establishments corresponds to the status of a regional airport and allows you to comfortably pass the time while waiting for a flight.

The main dining points are located in the main terminal. Generally, in the area before security control (landside), there are a few cafes and small restaurants accessible to all airport visitors. After passing security (airside), in the departure zone, there are usually establishments where you can have a quick bite. Here you will find coffee shops offering drinks and pastries, as well as small snack bars.

Travellers wishing to experience local gastronomy should look out for restaurants serving Gansu Province dishes. This is an excellent opportunity to try authentic noodles, lamb dishes, or other regional specialities. For a quick snack, steamed buns, sandwiches, or packaged snacks from mini-markets are ideal. If you have enough time, you can enjoy a full lunch in one of the restaurants in the public area.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes may be challenging within the terminal. The selection will likely be limited to simple vegetable side dishes or rice. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to carry their own snacks.

Food prices at Jinchuan Airport are higher than in the city but remain at a moderate level compared to major international hubs. The opening hours of most catering establishments are tied to the flight schedule; however, some cafes may close earlier in the evening, so it is better not to leave dinner until the last moment.

Travelling through Jinchuan Airport in the city of Jinchang, located in China, will be easier and more comfortable if you prepare in advance. To avoid unnecessary haste, arrive at the airport well in time. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive 2-3 hours before departure, and for international ones (if present in your schedule) — 3-4 hours. This time is sufficient to calmly complete all pre-flight formalities without stress.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight if your airline provides such an option. At the airport, keep your passport and boarding pass ready. Security screening procedures in Chinese airports can be quite strict. Be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, other large electronic devices, and portable power banks from your hand luggage for separate scanning.

Pay special attention to hand luggage regulations. Standard restrictions apply to liquids: containers with a volume of no more than 100 ml are permitted, packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp and cutting objects are strictly prohibited. An important nuance for travel within China is that portable power banks can be carried only in hand luggage, and the capacity must be clearly marked on them.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences. Seats by the window will offer beautiful views during take-off and landing. If you value freedom of movement and want to be able to stand up easily without disturbing neighbours, choose a seat by the aisle. Tall passengers should look at seats by the emergency exits, where there is usually more space, but airlines often charge an additional fee for selecting them.

If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage at the intermediate airport. Usually, for flights within one country, luggage is checked through to the final destination. At Jinchuan Airport, as in any other, follow the "Transfers/Connections" signs to quickly find the necessary gate.

When passing through customs control (relevant for travellers arriving from abroad or flying overseas), be prepared to present your passport and a completed declaration. If you are carrying goods subject to declaration, use the "Red Channel". In other cases, proceed confidently to the "Green Channel".

To save time and money, check in for your flight online and bring an empty water bottle with you — it can be filled at drinking fountains after passing security control. Prices for food and drinks in airports are often inflated, so a light snack from home will also not go amiss. For paying for services and goods at the airport, local payment systems such as Alipay or WeChat Pay can be convenient.

In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative to obtain up-to-date information on the new departure time and your rights. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. To brighten up the wait, keep a book, a charged power bank, and headphones in your hand luggage.