Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport (LHW). We recommend verifying the data on official resources before your trip.

• Official Website: www.lzia.cn (the site is available in Chinese; an online translator may be required for navigation).
• Information Service Phone: +86-931-8168464. Please note that operators may speak primarily Chinese.
• Airport Address: Zhongchuan Town, Yongdeng County, Lanzhou, Gansu, China.
• Email: An official email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to contact them via phone.
• Social Media: The airport may have official accounts on Chinese platforms (e.g., WeChat). For international tourists, the official website remains the most reliable source of information.
• Lost & Found: For issues related to items lost within the terminal, you can contact +86-931-8168221. If your luggage was lost by the airline, you should contact your carrier's representative first.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For consultations regarding airport services, please use the main information service phone number.

Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport (LHW) is located approximately 70 kilometres north of the city centre of Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu Province in China. This distance makes transport planning particularly important for travellers. Fortunately, there are several convenient ways to travel between the airport and the city, suitable for any budget and preference.

High-Speed Train

Perhaps the fastest and most reliable method is the Lanzhou-Zhongchuan Airport Intercity Railway. Trains run between the airport and the city's two main railway stations — Lanzhou West and Lanzhou Railway Station. The journey takes only 40-50 minutes. This is an excellent option to avoid city traffic jams. The station is located right inside the airport terminal, making the transfer extremely convenient.

Shuttle Buses

A more budget-friendly alternative is the network of shuttle buses. They connect the airport with key points in the city, including the Civil Aviation Administration area, Dongfanghong Square (near Lanzhou University), and others. Travel time by bus is approximately 1.5 hours, but this may increase during peak hours due to traffic conditions. This is a good choice for budget-conscious tourists who are not pressed for time.

Taxi and Transfers

For maximum comfort, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with family, you can take a taxi. The trip to the city centre will take about one hour, but the cost will be significantly higher compared to public transport. It is recommended to use official taxis and ensure the driver turns on the meter. Ride-hailing apps like DiDi Chuxing are also popular, where the trip cost is known in advance. For complete peace of mind, you can book a private transfer — the driver will meet you with a name sign directly in the arrivals hall.

Car Rental and Parking

Counters for international and local car rental companies operate at Lanzhou Airport. Renting a car can be convenient if you plan not only to see the city but also to travel around the scenic Gansu Province. However, please remember that foreign tourists generally require a Chinese driving licence to drive in China. The airport provides zones for both short-term and long-term parking should you choose to arrive in your own or a rented vehicle.

Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport (LHW) consists of two main passenger terminals — Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2). They are located in close proximity to each other, which simplifies navigation and movement for passengers. It is important to check your ticket in advance to see which terminal your flight operates from to correctly plan your route upon arrival at the airport.

Terminal 2 (T2) is the main and most modern facility at the airport. It serves the vast majority of domestic and all international flights. It is a spacious building with a thoughtful layout, housing essential services: check-in counters for most airlines, passport control and security screening zones, as well as the main selection of shops, cafes, and waiting lounges. Departure zones are traditionally located on the upper floors, and arrival halls on the lower ones.

Terminal 1 (T1) is an older and more compact building. After the opening of T2, it was renovated and is now used to serve flights for certain airlines, including budget carriers and charters. Due to its small size, completing formalities in T1 may take less time, although the choice of services here is more modest. Transferring between terminals T1 and T2 is easy — they are connected by a convenient walkway, and you can get from one to the other on foot in just a few minutes.

To complete all procedures comfortably, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance. For domestic flights, allow at least 2 hours, and for international flights — about 3 hours before departure. During peak hours and national holidays, queues for check-in and security may be longer, so it is worth allowing extra time. Navigation inside the terminals is intuitive thanks to signs in Chinese and English.

The history of Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport (LHW) dates back to 1970, when it was officially opened for flights. The new airport was built to replace the old Lanzhou Donggang airfield, which could no longer cope with the growing needs of the city of Lanzhou and the entire Gansu Province. Initially, it served both civil and military functions, providing vital air connectivity for the region.

Over the years, the airport developed at a moderate pace, but a real breakthrough in its history occurred in the 21st century. Realising the strategic importance of this transport hub in northwest China, authorities launched a massive modernisation programme. A key stage was granting the airport international status, which significantly expanded its opportunities for tourism and international trade.

A landmark event that radically changed the appearance and capacity of the airport was the opening of the new Terminal 2 in 2015. This allowed not only for an increase in passenger traffic but also substantially improved the quality of service.

Thanks to these transformations, Zhongchuan quickly became one of the fastest-growing airports in the country, successfully surpassing the milestone of 10 million passengers per year. The airport's history continues to be written today: construction is underway for an even larger and more modern Terminal 3. This project aims to strengthen Lanzhou's status as one of the main aviation hubs in the western part of the country, ready for the challenges of the future.

Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport (LHW) offers passengers a wide range of services and amenities to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. In the airport terminals, you will find numerous restaurants and cafes where you can try both local Chinese dishes and familiar international snacks. For shopping enthusiasts, there are shops, including Duty Free, where you can purchase souvenirs, cosmetics, and other tax-free goods.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for departure. Numerous stands and power outlets are provided for charging electronic devices. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can use the business lounges and VIP zones. They offer comfortable seating, a quiet atmosphere, snacks, beverages, and the latest press.

To handle financial matters, bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points operate within the airport. In case of need, passengers can visit the medical centre for first aid. Travellers with children will appreciate the specially equipped mother and child rooms, where you can feed and change your baby in a calm environment.

The airport is fully adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility. Wheelchairs are provided, and airport staff are ready to assist with check-in, security screening, and boarding. For those who need to rest between flights, hotels are located near the terminals. Business travellers can also utilise business centres and conference rooms for meetings and negotiations.

At Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport (LHW), passengers will find diverse dining options capable of satisfying both hurried travellers and those wishing to have a substantial meal before their flight. Food outlets are located in both the public area (landside) and the area after security control (airside).

The main thing to try at the airport is undoubtedly the famous Lanzhou Beef Noodles (Lanzhou Niuroumian). Several establishments specialising in this dish offer the authentic taste for which the city is renowned. This is an excellent choice for a wholesome and warming lunch or dinner. A portion of aromatic hand-pulled noodles with thinly sliced beef and spicy broth will be a wonderful gastronomic conclusion to your visit to Lanzhou.

Besides local cuisine, other options are presented in the airport terminals. For a quick snack, chain coffee shops serve coffee, tea, and pastries, alongside fast-food restaurants offering both international (e.g., burgers and chicken) and Asian dishes. For a more relaxed meal, you can choose one of the restaurants serving dishes from various regions of China. Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the last planes depart.

Regarding special dietary needs, Lanzhou has strong Muslim traditions, so finding establishments with the Halal (清真) sign is easy, especially among those serving beef noodles. Vegetarians should look for vegetable and tofu dishes on Chinese restaurant menus, though it is always best to clarify ingredients with the staff. Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city, but options for different budgets can be found — from inexpensive snacks in shops to full meals in restaurants.

To ensure your journey through Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport runs as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our tips. Planning ahead will help avoid unnecessary stress and make your experience more pleasant.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For domestic flights within China, arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before departure, and for international flights — 3-4 hours. This gives you a sufficient buffer for check-in and security control, which can take longer during peak hours. Keep your passport, visa (if required), and boarding pass handy.

Hand Luggage and Seat Selection: Standard rules for liquids (no more than 100 ml per container) apply here. It is especially important to remember that power banks can only be carried in hand luggage. When checking in online, choose a window seat for beautiful views or an aisle seat if you want more legroom and the ability to stand up quickly.

Transfer Passengers and Customs: If you have a connecting flight in Lanzhou, follow the "Transfers" signs. You may need to undergo additional security screening. At customs control, be prepared to fill out an arrival card and honestly declare goods if their value exceeds established limits.

Savings and Flight Delays: Check in for your flight online to save time in queues. To save money, consider using shuttle buses or trains to travel to the city. In the event of a flight delay, contact your airline representative immediately. Check the departure boards for information and inquire about possible compensation (meals, beverages) that the airline is obliged to provide during long waits.