Qionghai Bo'ao

Qionghai Bo'ao Airport (IATA: BAR) is a modern and strategically important aerial gateway on the eastern coast of Hainan Island in China. Opened in 2016, it was built specifically to serve the annual Bo'ao Forum for Asia, making it a key transport hub for business travellers and high-ranking guests. Thanks to its picturesque location and well-thought-out infrastructure, the airport also serves as a convenient starting point for tourists wishing to explore the tropical resorts of this region. Since April 2024, the airport has officially received international status, opening up new travel opportunities.

The main feature of Qionghai Bo'ao Airport is its role as the official air harbour for the prestigious Bo'ao Forum for Asia. This necessitates a high level of service and security. The airport is distinguished by its modern architecture and is often referred to as a "garden airport" due to its harmonious blending with the surrounding tropical landscape.

For travellers, the airport offers all necessary amenities, and its compact size allows for quick passage through all pre-flight and post-flight procedures. Obtaining international status in 2024 and the launch of flights from abroad, starting with Hong Kong, have significantly increased its appeal to tourists. Its location between the island's two largest cities, Sanya and Haikou, makes it a convenient point to begin a journey across all of Hainan.

To ensure your trip runs smoothly, it is important to have the airport contacts at hand. Below is the essential information for contacting Qionghai Bo'ao Airport (BAR). We recommend always verifying the data on official resources before your flight.

• Official Website: You will always find the most accurate and up-to-date information on the airport's official website. To search online, use the query "Qionghai Bo'ao Airport official website".
• Information Service Phone: The current phone number for enquiries regarding flights and airport services is best checked on the official website in the "Contacts" section.
• Address: The airport is located in the county-level city of Qionghai, Hainan Province, China. Exact address for navigation: Bo'ao Airport Road, Zhongyuan Town.
• Email: A contact email for official enquiries is usually available in the administration contact section of the airport website.
• Lost & Found: If you have lost your luggage, first contact your airline representative. Regarding items left within the terminal, please contact the Lost & Found service, details of which are listed on the airport website.
• Passenger Support Service: For most issues, you can contact the airport's unified information service using the phone number listed on the official website.

There are several ways to get to Qionghai Bo'ao Airport from the city of Qionghai and other areas of Hainan Island in China. The airport is conveniently located between Qionghai city and the resort town of Bo'ao, making it easily accessible for travellers. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose public transport, a taxi, or a rental car.

Public Transport is the most economical option. Special shuttle buses run from the airport to Qionghai city centre and the Bo'ao tourist zone. Their schedule is often coordinated with arriving and departing flights. Additionally, the region has a well-developed high-speed train system. You can take a train to Bo'ao Railway Station, and from there take a taxi to the airport, which takes only 10–15 minutes. This method is particularly convenient if you are travelling from other cities on the island, such as Haikou or Sanya.

Taxi or Private Transfer offers maximum comfort and speed. A taxi ride from the centre of Qionghai to the airport will take approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. This is an ideal choice for those travelling with heavy luggage or those who value their time. The cost of the trip will be higher than by bus, but quite reasonable by local standards. You can also book a transfer in advance, guaranteeing a car upon your arrival.

For those who prefer complete freedom of movement, car rental is an excellent solution. The airport usually has counters for international and local rental companies. Having your own transport will allow you not only to reach the airport comfortably but also to explore the picturesque surroundings of Hainan Island at your own pace. The airport features convenient parking, where you can leave your vehicle for both short and long periods.

Qionghai Bo'ao Airport (BAR) is a modern and compact aviation hub designed for passenger convenience. Currently, it consists of one main terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to the thoughtful layout, it is very easy to navigate here, even if you are visiting for the first time.

The terminal structure is logical and intuitive. The space is clearly divided into functional zones:

• Check-in Hall: Located on the first level. Here you will find airline counters where passengers check in luggage and receive boarding passes.
• Departure Hall: Located after passing through security control. This is the secure zone with boarding gates, small shops, cafes, and comfortable waiting areas.
• Arrival Hall: Here passengers collect their luggage from conveyor belts and go through customs control (if necessary). From here, you can access the parking lot, taxi rank, and bus stops.

Completing pre-flight formalities at Bo'ao Airport usually takes less time than in the major metropolises of China. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2.5-3 hours. This time is generally sufficient for a calm check-in and security screening process. Navigation through the terminal is simplified thanks to clear signs in Chinese and English, and airport staff are always ready to assist with any questions.

The history of Qionghai Bo'ao Airport (BAR) is unique and inextricably linked to one of the key international events in Asia — the Bo'ao Forum for Asia. Unlike many airports with a long history, this transport hub was built in record time with a specific goal: to ensure the comfortable arrival of heads of state, political leaders, and global business representatives for the annual forum.

Construction began in 2015, and as early as March 2016, the airport received its first flights, just in time for the opening of the next forum. This was a true achievement, demonstrating the impressive pace of infrastructure development in Hainan Province. Initially designed as a facility primarily to serve forum delegations, the airport was equipped with a runway capable of accommodating large long-haul liners.

Almost immediately after opening, it became obvious that the airport's potential went far beyond serving a single event. The growing tourist flow to the eastern coast of Hainan required immediate expansion. Already in 2017, the second phase of construction began, which included the erection of a new international terminal, expansion of the aircraft parking apron, and lengthening of the runway. This rapid modernisation allowed Bo'ao Airport to become an important centre for regular domestic and international flights, significantly relieving other airports on the island.

Thus, in its short history, Qionghai Bo'ao Airport has gone from a specialised facility for hosting events to a full-fledged international passenger hub. It is a shining example of how strategic planning linked to a major event can provide a powerful impetus for the development of an entire region, transforming it into an even more accessible and attractive destination for travellers from all over the world.

Qionghai Bo'ao Airport (BAR) offers passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is designed to ensure convenience and functionality. Here you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite before departure, choosing from both local dishes and more familiar international cuisine. In the shops, you can purchase souvenirs, travel goods, and locally produced products.

For those who value enhanced comfort, the airport operates premium lounges and VIP zones. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere and enjoy beverages and snacks. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices will allow you to stay connected at all times. If necessary, you can use the services of bank branches and currency exchange points.

The airport is well-equipped for the needs of various categories of passengers. For travellers with children, there is a mother and child room where you can take care of your baby in a quiet environment. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on a barrier-free environment, including ramps, lifts, and special assistance from staff. A medical post is also available on the premises, ready to provide first aid.

Although there are no hotels directly within the terminal building, there are many hotels of various levels in the immediate vicinity, especially in the Bo'ao resort zone. Given the airport's importance for hosting international events, basic business services or small conference rooms for business meetings may also be available.

Qionghai Bo'ao Airport (BAR) offers passengers several options for a snack or a full meal while waiting for a flight. Although the choice of establishments may not be as extensive as in major international hubs, you can find both fast food outlets and à la carte restaurants here. Most cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the main terminal building.

The majority of establishments are located in the "secure" zone, after passing through security control. Here travellers can relax in one of the cafes with a cup of coffee and fresh pastries or a sandwich. For a more substantial meal, there are restaurants offering Chinese dishes, particularly Hainan cuisine. This is a great opportunity to taste local delicacies, such as seafood noodles or the famous Wenchang chicken, before leaving the island.

If you are in a hurry, kiosks with snacks and beverages are the ideal solution. For a leisurely lunch, it is better to choose one of the restaurants with seating. Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city, which is standard practice. The opening hours of most catering establishments are tied to the flight schedule and serve passengers from early morning until the departure of the last flight.

Passengers with special dietary needs (vegetarians, vegans) are advised to clarify the ingredients of dishes directly with the staff. Although specialised menus may be absent, suitable options based on rice and vegetables can often be found in Chinese cuisine. In general, Qionghai Bo'ao Airport provides all the conditions to spend time comfortably while awaiting your journey.

To ensure your journey through Qionghai Bo'ao Airport goes smoothly, there are several points to consider. When planning a trip to Qionghai, allow enough time for pre-flight formalities. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3-4 hours before an international one. This will allow you to check in, drop off luggage, and find your boarding gate without rushing.

To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. This will help avoid queues at the counters. At the security checkpoint, be ready to present your passport and boarding pass. All electronics (laptops, tablets, power banks) and liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, should be removed from your hand luggage in advance.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences. Window seats will give you the opportunity to admire the views during takeoff and landing, especially given the city's coastal location. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up often during the flight. Seats by emergency exits often offer more legroom but also impose certain responsibilities.

Pay special attention to carry-on luggage rules, especially in China. All liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml. Power banks and lithium batteries can be carried only in hand luggage; their capacity must not exceed the limits set by the airline (usually 100-160 Wh), and the markings must be clearly visible. It is forbidden to carry sharp objects and flammable substances.

If you have a connecting flight at Bo'ao Airport, follow the "Transfer" signs. Check with your airline in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. Leave a sufficient time gap between flights to calmly go through all necessary procedures, including possible security re-screening.

When passing through customs control, it is necessary to declare goods exceeding duty-free limits, as well as large sums of cash. Keep receipts for expensive purchases. Remember that there are restrictions on bringing in certain products, such as meat, dairy products, and fresh fruit.

To save time and money, check in for your flight online, bring an empty reusable water bottle that can be filled after passing security, and use the free Wi-Fi in the terminal. Prices for food and beverages may vary in different parts of the airport, so do not rush your choice.

In case of a flight delay, remain calm. First of all, monitor information on the departure boards and announcements. Contact your airline representative for clarification on the flight status and the possibility of providing meals or hotel accommodation depending on the duration of the delay. Keep all receipts for necessary expenses — they may be needed to claim compensation from the airline or through travel insurance.