Jieyang Chaoshan Airport

Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport is the main aerial gateway to the unique cultural region of Chaoshan, known worldwide for its culinary heritage and tea ceremonies. This modern transport hub boasts a unique geography: it is situated at the junction of three cities — Jieyang, Chaozhou, and Shantou, providing convenient access to each of them. For travellers, this means that immediately after landing, you are in the centre of the action, just a half-hour drive from the legendary cuisine and historical sights of eastern Guangdong.

Airport Features and Advantages:

Strategic Location. The airport was specifically built in the geographical centre of the agglomeration to serve three major cities equidistantly. This makes it an ideal entry point for tourists planning a tour of the region: from here, it is equally convenient to reach the business centre of Shantou or the historic streets of Chaozhou.

Modern Infrastructure. Following a recent expansion and the commissioning of new terminal areas, the airport has become significantly more spacious and comfortable. Passengers have access to modern waiting lounges, Duty Free shops, and cafes where one can sample local delicacies even before heading into the city.

Transport Accessibility. The air terminal is excellently integrated into the province's transport system. In addition to regular express buses connecting the terminal with the centres of neighbouring cities, the high-speed train station Chaoshan Railway Station is located nearby, allowing for easy continuation of your journey across China.

To contact the administration and services of Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport (SWA), which serves the city of Shantou and the entire Chaoshan agglomeration, you may use the following contact details:

• Official Website: www.cs-airport.com. Please note that the main version of the site is in Chinese; an online translator may be required.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +86-663-3933333 (for international calls) or 0663-3933333 (for calls within China).
• Address: Denggang Town, Jiedong District, Jieyang City, Guangdong Province, China.
• Email: The airport does not publish an official email address for general public use. It is recommended to contact them via phone or through forms on the website (if available).
• Lost and Found: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative first. Airport service phone: +86-663-3828777.
• Social Media: The airport's main accounts are maintained on Chinese social networks, such as WeChat.
• Passenger Support Service: For consultations and assistance with general enquiries, please use the main airport inquiry phone number.

There are several ways to get to Jieyang Chaoshan Airport (SWA), which serves three urban districts — Shantou, Chaozhou, and Jieyang. The choice depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. The airport is located approximately 30 kilometres from the centre of Shantou, and the journey usually takes from 40 to 60 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Public Transport: Shuttle Buses

The most economical way to reach the airport is to use specialised shuttle buses. There are several routes connecting the airport with key points in Shantou, Chaozhou, and Jieyang. Buses run at regular intervals throughout the day. This is an excellent choice for budget travellers. There is also a shuttle to the nearby high-speed railway station, Chaoshan, which is convenient for transit passengers travelling across China by train.

Taxi and Transfers

Taking a taxi is a fast and convenient option. Cars can be found at designated ranks in the city or booked via popular local ride-hailing apps. This is the ideal choice if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling as a group or family. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus, but you get the comfort of a door-to-door service. It is recommended to use official taxis and ensure the driver switches on the meter.

Car Rental and Parking

For those who prefer maximum freedom of movement, car rental services are available at the airport and in the city. However, please remember that foreign tourists generally require a local driving licence to drive in China. If you are arriving at the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, a convenient car park is at your disposal. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking.

Jieyang Chaoshan Airport (SWA) is a modern and well-organised transport hub. Navigation is usually straightforward for travellers thanks to a thoughtful layout and a clear signage system.

A key feature of the airport is the presence of one main passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. This significantly simplifies movement: you will not have to search for transfers between different buildings or use shuttles. All infrastructure — from check-in counters to boarding gates — is concentrated under one roof.

The terminal layout is quite standard for modern airports. The building is divided into several levels:

• Departures Zone is usually located on the upper floor. Here you will find airline check-in counters, security checkpoints, and passport control for international flights. After completing formalities, passengers enter the secure area with shops, cafes, and boarding gates.
• Arrivals Zone is located on the lower floor. Passengers arrive here after the aircraft lands. This area houses baggage reclaim belts, customs control counters, and the exit to the public hall, where you can find taxis or public transport stops.

The time required to complete all procedures may vary. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2.5-3 hours. During peak hours or the tourist season, queues for check-in and security may be longer, so it is worth allowing extra time.

For easy navigation through the terminal, pay attention to the electronic boards with flight information and follow the signs, which are duplicated in English. Airport staff are also always ready to help and direct you.

Jieyang Chaoshan Airport is relatively young, yet it has already managed to become a key transport hub for the entire Chaoshan region in China. Its history began not long ago, but it reflects the rapid development of this part of the country. The airport was officially opened for flights on 15 December 2011. Its construction was driven by the need to replace the old Shantou Waisha Airport, which had limited expansion capabilities and could no longer cope with the growing passenger traffic.

The decision to create a new modern airport was made in the early 2000s, and construction began in 2009. The new complex was designed from scratch to serve three major cities simultaneously — Jieyang, Chaozhou, and Shantou, which is reflected in its name "Jieyang Chaoshan". This name symbolises its role as a shared centre for the entire densely populated economic region.

One of the most remarkable events in the airport's history was the launch process itself. On the night of 14 to 15 December 2011, a massive and flawlessly coordinated operation was carried out to transfer all flights and equipment from the old Waisha Airport to the new Jieyang Chaoshan complex. In the evening, the last flight departed from the old harbour, and by the morning of the next day, the first aircraft landed on the new runway. This seamless transition became a shining example of efficiency and planning.

Since opening, the airport has demonstrated impressive growth rates. Passenger traffic exceeded the boldest forecasts, necessitating further expansion. In subsequent years, projects were implemented to modernise the terminal and increase its capacity, and planning began for the construction of a second runway. Today, Jieyang Chaoshan Airport is a modern international airport playing a crucial role in the economic and tourism development of eastern Guangdong Province, connecting it with dozens of cities around the world.

At Jieyang Chaoshan Airport (SWA), all conditions have been created for a comfortable wait for your flight. Passengers have access to a wide selection of cafes and restaurants where one can grab a quick snack or enjoy a full meal, trying dishes of the famous local Chaoshan cuisine or choosing familiar international options. In the shops within the terminal, you can purchase souvenirs, gifts for loved ones, and essential items.

For those who prefer to wait for their flight in a calmer environment, premium lounges and VIP zones are available. Here, guests are offered refreshments, beverages, and press in a secluded atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi operates throughout the airport, and numerous power outlets and USB ports allow you to charge electronic devices without issues before your flight.

To handle financial matters, bank branches and currency exchange points function within the terminal. In case of necessity, passengers can visit the medical point where first aid is provided. Information desks are always ready to help you orient yourself and provide up-to-date information on flights and services.

The airport cares for travellers with special needs. For families with small children, nursing rooms equipped with everything necessary are provided. Passengers with reduced mobility are offered assistance in moving around the terminal, and the airport infrastructure, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms, makes the stay here as convenient as possible. To receive escort services, it is recommended to contact your airline in advance.

Business travellers can utilise the services of the business centre. Although there are no hotels directly inside the terminal building, several hotels of various levels are located in the immediate vicinity, many of which organise complimentary transfers to and from the airport for their guests, which is particularly convenient for early departures or long layovers.

Jieyang Chaoshan Airport (SWA) offers passengers diverse dining opportunities, allowing for both a quick snack before departure and a full lunch while waiting for a flight. Most catering establishments are concentrated in the main terminal, both in the public area (before security control) and in the departures zone.

The main pride of the airport is the restaurants offering dishes of local Chaoshan (Chaozhou) cuisine, which is famous throughout China. If you have time, be sure to try the famous beef meatball soup, oyster omelette, or various dim sum. This is an excellent opportunity to experience the region's gastronomic traditions without leaving the airport. For those who prefer more familiar food, there are food court style establishments offering Chinese and Asian cuisine, as well as coffee shops.

For a quick snack, coffee shops and small cafes located both in the check-in area and after passport control are ideal. Here you can order coffee, tea, pastries, sandwiches, and desserts. If you have time for a full lunch or dinner, it is better to choose one of the à la carte restaurants where you can enjoy local delicacies in a relaxed atmosphere.

Prices in airport establishments are generally higher than the city average, which is standard practice for air hubs. The opening hours of most restaurants and cafes are tied to the flight schedule — they open early in the morning and close after the departure of the last evening flights. Options for passengers with special dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free) may be limited, so it is recommended to clarify ingredients with staff. However, the basis of many local dishes is rice, vegetables, and seafood, which may provide suitable options.

To ensure your journey through Jieyang Chaoshan Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of these tips. They will help save time and reduce stress, making the wait for your flight more comfortable.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights within China, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before departure, and for international flights — no less than 3 hours. This will give you enough time in case of queues. If possible, complete online check-in in advance to save time at airline counters.

Security Checks. Security screening procedures at Chinese airports can be quite thorough. Prepare all electronic devices (laptops, tablets, power banks) in advance — you will likely be asked to remove them from your bag. Please note: power banks are allowed in carry-on luggage only if they have clear power markings (usually up to 100-160 Wh), while lighters and matches are completely prohibited.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. If you have the opportunity to select a seat during check-in, prefer an aisle seat for more legroom and a quick exit. A window seat is suitable for those who enjoy the views during take-off and landing. In your hand luggage, besides standard restrictions on liquids (up to 100 ml in one container), do not pack sharp objects. Take an empty water bottle with you to fill it after passing security.

Passengers with Transfers. If you have a connecting flight in Shantou, clarify in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. Also check visa requirements: for some transit passengers, special visa-free regimes may apply, but it is best to ascertain all rules for your nationality well in advance.

Customs Control and Economy. When entering or leaving the country, be prepared to fill out a customs declaration if you are carrying goods subject to declaration or large sums of cash. To save money, study transport options to and from the airport — shuttle buses often prove significantly cheaper than taxis.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and possible compensation (meals, beverages). Jieyang Chaoshan Airport has cafes and shops where you can spend time while waiting.