Qiqihar Airport

Qiqihar Sanjiazi Airport is the main air gateway to the prefecture-level city of the same name in Heilongjiang Province, located in north-eastern China. As a dual-use airport, it serves both civil and military flights, playing a vital role in the region's transport system. Despite its modest size, the airport provides residents and visitors of Qiqihar with stable connections to the country's key metropolises. This air harbour serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the unique culture and nature of Manchuria.

Although Qiqihar Airport cannot boast the scale of major international hubs, it offers passengers everything necessary for a comfortable journey. The airport complex includes one terminal serving all domestic flights. The airport's main advantage is its strategic location, allowing quick access to the city centre and key regional sites. The terminal's compactness makes check-in and security procedures fast and convenient, which is particularly appreciated by travellers who dislike the hustle and bustle of large airports. The airport connects Qiqihar via direct flights to important cities such as Beijing, Dalian, Qingdao, and Shanghai, making it an indispensable transport hub for business trips and tourism.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Sanjiazi Airport (NDG) in the city of Qiqihar. Please note that obtaining information in English via phone may be difficult.

• Official Website: Current information about the airport's operations is published on its page on the Heilongjiang Airport Group management company website: www.hlj-airport.com/qhjch. The site is available in Chinese.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +86 452 234 7114. This is the main number for obtaining information about flight schedules, services, and airport operations.
• Airport Address: Sanjiazi Town, Tiefeng District, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang, China. The airport is located approximately 13 km from the central part of the city.
• Email: A public email address for general inquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the phone for communication.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain active pages on international social networks. The official website remains the primary source of information.
• Lost and Found Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you should primarily contact your airline's representative at the airport. You can also call the luggage tracing service via the general inquiry number: +86 452 234 7114.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For consultations and assistance at the airport, please visit the information desks or call the inquiry service.

There are several ways to get to Qiqihar Airport from the centre of Qiqihar city, located in China. The choice depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. The trip from the city centre to the terminal usually takes between 30 to 50 minutes, but it is wise to allow extra time for potential traffic, especially during peak hours.

Public Transport is the most economical option. Typically, special shuttle buses or city routes run between the city and the airport. This is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers and those travelling light. It is best to verify route numbers and schedules on-site, as they may change. The bus fare is significantly lower than other modes of transport.

Taxi or Pre-booked Transfer is the most convenient and fastest way to reach the airport. You can hail a car on the street or order one via an app. It is recommended to use official taxis with a working meter to avoid overcharging. A taxi ride ensures comfort, especially if you have a lot of luggage. The cost will be higher than the bus but is predictable and acceptable, especially if you are travelling in a group.

Car Rental is suitable for those planning to move actively around the region and value independence. Car rental counters operate in the city and at the airport itself. It is important to remember that foreign tourists may require a special temporary permit or a Chinese driving licence to drive in China. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, parking with zones for short-term and long-term stays is provided.

Qiqihar Sanjiazi Airport (NDG) is a modern regional aviation hub serving the city of Qiqihar and the north-western part of Heilongjiang Province. Its structure is simple and functional, making it convenient for passengers.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which handles all flights—both domestic and international. Thanks to this, there is no need for complex transfers or the use of shuttles; all zones are located within a single building. Such compactness significantly simplifies navigation and saves time.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The departure and arrival zones are logically separated. The ground floor usually houses check-in counters and the baggage claim area for arriving passengers. After check-in, passengers proceed to the first floor, where the security checkpoint is located, followed by access to waiting lounges and boarding gates. Signs and information boards are generally presented in Chinese and English.

Check-in and security procedures at Qiqihar Airport are quite fast compared to major international airports. On average, all formalities take no more than 30–40 minutes during normal times. Nevertheless, the standard recommendation is to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight departure to avoid any rush. To navigate, simply follow the signs—it is practically impossible to get lost here.

The history of Qiqihar Sanjiazi Airport (NDG) reflects the rapid development of the entire North-East China region. Its roots go back to the 1930s when a military airfield was built on this site. For many decades, it served exclusively defence functions, and only in the second half of the 20th century did its transformation into a civil aviation facility begin, marking a turning point for the city of Qiqihar.

The official opening of the airport for civil flights took place in 1987. This event breathed new life into the city's economy and social sphere, establishing direct air connections with the country's key centres. Initially, the infrastructure was modest, but the very fact of regular passenger transport became a powerful stimulus for further growth.

With the increase in passenger traffic and the appearance of new types of aircraft, a need for radical modernisation arose. In the early 2000s, the airport underwent massive reconstruction. The runway was significantly lengthened and strengthened, and in 2003, a new, modern passenger terminal was opened. These changes allowed for the reception of larger aircraft and significantly improved the quality of passenger service.

One of the interesting facts is that Qiqihar Airport remains a dual-use airfield to this day, serving both civil and military aircraft. This highlights its strategic importance to the region. Today, NDG is an important transport hub connecting this industrial and cultural centre with the rest of China, facilitating business and tourism development.

Qiqihar Airport (NDG) provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Whether you are travelling for business or leisure, the terminal has everything to make your stay here pleasant and convenient.

For those feeling hungry, there are various cafes and restaurants offering both quick snacks and full meals of local and international cuisine. In the airport shops, you can find souvenirs to remember your trip to China, travel essentials, and gifts for friends and family.

The terminal is equipped with comfortable waiting lounges. For passengers preferring privacy and exclusive service, VIP lounges with a calmer atmosphere are available. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices will help you stay connected.

ATMs and currency exchange points are provided for financial matters. In case of need, you can seek assistance at the medical centre. Families with small children can use the mother and child room, where all conditions for baby care are created.

The airport also caters to passengers with reduced mobility, offering a barrier-free environment, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms. Staff are always ready to provide necessary assistance. For business travellers, basic business services may be available, and for those needing an overnight stay, several hotels are located near the airport.

Qiqihar Airport (NDG) offers passengers basic dining options to spend time comfortably while waiting for a flight. Although the choice of establishments here is not as vast as in major international hubs, finding a place for a snack or a full meal is certainly possible.

In the main terminal of the airport, both in the public area before security and in the secure departure zone, there are small cafes and eateries. You can order coffee, tea, soft drinks, as well as light snacks such as sandwiches, pastries, and packaged snacks. This is a convenient option for those with little time before boarding.

For a more substantial lunch or dinner, it is worth looking at establishments offering Chinese cuisine. Here you can try dishes traditional to the north-eastern region of China—for example, noodles, dumplings, or simple meat and vegetable side dishes with rice. Prices at the airport are typically higher than in the city but remain at a moderate level. Most food outlets operate according to the flight schedule, opening a few hours before the first departure and closing after the last one leaves.

Passengers with specific dietary needs (vegetarians, vegans, those requiring Halal options, or gluten-free diets) may find it challenging to find suitable options. The choice will likely be limited to simple vegetable dishes or rice. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring food with you or check the ingredients of dishes directly with the cafe staff.

To ensure your journey from Qiqihar Airport goes smoothly, it is worth preparing in advance. As in most airports in China, it is recommended to arrive for domestic flights 2–2.5 hours before departure, and for international ones (if available), at least 3 hours prior. This time is sufficient to pass all formalities without rushing, especially during peak hours.

To save time, use the online check-in service if your airline provides it. This will allow you to avoid queues at the check-in counter, especially if you are travelling without luggage. Security screening procedures at Chinese airports can be quite strict. Be prepared to remove all electronic devices from your carry-on luggage, including laptops, tablets, and power banks. Liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag.

Pay special attention to carry-on luggage rules. Power banks and lithium batteries are allowed only in carry-on luggage; checking them into the hold is strictly prohibited. Also, ensure you do not have lighters or other flammable items with you, as they may be confiscated at security.

If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. For short connections, try to choose seats in the front of the aircraft to disembark faster and catch your next flight. A window seat offers beautiful views during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat provides more legroom and the freedom to stand up easily.

When passing through customs control, keep your passport and boarding pass ready. Honestly declare all goods subject to declaration to avoid delays and fines. To save money, bring an empty water bottle—after passing security, it can be filled at drinking fountains. You can also bring light snacks, but be mindful of food transport regulations.

In case of a flight delay, remain calm. First, contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and possible compensation (water, meals). It is useful to have a book, a charged power bank, and headphones to pass the time. Many airlines have mobile apps where flight status updates appear fastest.