Shihezi Huayuan

Shihezi Huayuan Airport is not merely a transport hub, but the aerial gateway to the amazing "Garden City" amidst the Gobi Desert. This modern terminal welcomes travellers wishing to touch the unique history of Xinjiang's development and enjoy majestic views of the Tian Shan mountains during their descent. Your introduction to a city where the poetry of nature and human diligence intertwine harmoniously begins here.

Airport Features and Advantages

Huayuan Airport was opened at the end of 2015, replacing an outdated air harbour, and today stands as an example of compact and efficient infrastructure. The main advantage for tourists is its convenient location: the journey to the city centre takes very little time, allowing you to start your excursion programme almost immediately upon arrival. The terminal is equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable wait, and thanks to its small size, check-in and security procedures are significantly faster than in major hubs.

An important feature is the airport's role as a regional link. It ensures reliable connections with other cities in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and major centres across the country. For travellers, this opens the opportunity to create complex routes across China, using Shihezi as a convenient entry point or transfer hub for exploring the northwestern part of the country.

Finding direct contacts for regional airports, such as Shihezi Huayuan (SHF), can be challenging. Most flight-related issues are resolved through airlines. Below is the main available information:

• Official Website: Shihezi Huayuan Airport (SHF) does not have a separate official website. It is recommended to check all up-to-date information regarding flight schedules, carriage rules, and services directly on the websites of the airlines operating flights to this airport.
• Information Desk Phone: A direct phone number for general enquiries is not published. For prompt information regarding your flight, please contact your airline's customer support service.
• Address: Shihezi Huayuan Airport, Shihezi, Xinjiang, China. The airport is located approximately 15 kilometres from the city centre.
• Email and Social Media: The airport does not provide a public email address and does not maintain official pages on social media platforms.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should immediately contact the Lost and Found service of the airline you flew with.
• Passenger Support Service: Assistance to passengers is provided by airline representatives at their counters within the airport terminal.

Shihezi Huayuan Airport (SHF) is located near the city, making the journey there quick and convenient. Travellers can choose from several transport options depending on their budget, time, and preferences. Regardless of the choice, the trip from the centre of Shihezi, one of the unique cities of China, is unlikely to take much time.

Taxi or Private Transfer is the fastest and most comfortable way to get to the airport. The journey from the city centre usually takes about 20–30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. This is an ideal option for those travelling with large luggage or those who value personal space. The cost will be higher than public transport, but the convenience justifies it. It is recommended to use official taxis or book a transfer through your hotel in advance.

Public Transport is generally represented by special bus routes (shuttles) connecting the airport with key points in the city. This is the most budget-friendly option. Although exact schedules and routes may change, buses usually run at intervals coordinated with flight schedules. It is best to verify information about the nearest stop and departure times locally, for example, at your hotel reception.

Car Rental offers maximum freedom of movement, especially if you plan to explore not only the city but also its surroundings. Car rental counters operate at the airport and in the city. Please note that foreign tourists may require a Chinese driving licence to drive in China. This option is suitable for experienced and independent travellers.

For those travelling to the airport in their own or rented vehicle, parking is provided on the grounds of Shihezi Huayuan Airport. Short-term and long-term parking zones are usually available, allowing you to leave the car for the duration of your trip.

Shihezi Huayuan Airport (SHF) is a modern and compact aviation hub that primarily serves domestic flights. Its infrastructure is designed for maximum passenger convenience and quick navigation.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, where all service zones are concentrated. Such a structure eliminates the need to transfer between buildings and makes orientation intuitive. The terminal layout is classic for modern airports: the departure zone is located on the first floor, and the arrival zone is on the ground floor. The floors are connected by lifts and escalators.

The departure zone houses check-in counters, security screening points, and a comfortable waiting hall with boarding gates. The arrival zone includes baggage claim belts and an exit to the public area, where you can meet arrivals or order a taxi. Thanks to the small size of the terminal and well-thought-out logistics, all pre-flight formalities usually take a minimum amount of time.

It is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight for check-in and screening. This time is more than sufficient to check in luggage, pass security control, and reach your gate without rushing. Navigation through the terminal is straightforward: signs in Chinese and English are installed everywhere, and staff are always ready to help you find your way.

The history of Shihezi Huayuan Airport (SHF) is a story of the revival and modernisation of aviation links in the region. Although the modern airport opened its doors to passengers relatively recently, on 26 December 2015, its roots go back to the mid-20th century.

The predecessor of the current hub was the old Shihezi airport, built back in 1951. For a long time, it served both military and civil purposes; however, regular civil aviation services were ceased in 1998. The need for a modern air gateway for the developing city and region became increasingly apparent.

The decision to build a new airport was made at the highest level in May 2012. The project received approval and funding, and large-scale construction work soon began. The goal was to create modern infrastructure capable of stimulating economic growth, tourism, and improving transport accessibility for this important district of China. The opening of Huayuan Airport in 2015 became a key event marking a new era in the development of Shihezi's transport system.

Since its opening, Shihezi Huayuan Airport has been classified as a 4C class airfield. It was equipped with a runway 2,400 metres long and a new passenger terminal. As the airport is quite young, its history has not yet accumulated major renovations, but its creation in itself is a crucial stage of modernisation and a significant achievement for the entire region.

Shihezi Huayuan Airport (SHF) is a modern and compact aviation hub providing passengers with all essential amenities for a comfortable wait before departure. Despite its small size, the terminal is designed to make your stay here as convenient and peaceful as possible.

Before departure, you can have a snack in one of the cafes or eateries serving local and European cuisine, as well as enjoy a coffee. The airport also has small shops where you can purchase travel essentials, press, beverages, and souvenirs to remember your journey through China.

Spacious and bright halls with sufficient seating are provided for waiting for flights. Business class passengers and loyalty programme members can use the services of the VIP lounge for a more private rest. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for gadgets will allow you to stay connected at all times.

ATMs for cash withdrawals are installed in the airport building. A currency exchange point may be absent or have limited operating hours, so it is recommended to arrange currency exchange in advance. A medical point operates around the clock in the terminal to provide urgent assistance.

The airport is equipped for the comfortable stay of passengers with children — there are mother and child rooms where you can take care of your baby in a quiet environment. For passengers with reduced mobility, ramps, special restrooms, and an escort service from the check-in counter to the aircraft are provided; it is recommended to book this service in advance through the airline.

There are no specialised business centres or conference halls in the terminal, but basic services for work may be provided in the VIP lounge. There are also no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but a wide selection of accommodation options can be found in the nearby city of Shihezi, which is easily accessible by taxi or bus.

Shihezi Huayuan Airport (SHF), being a small regional airport in China, offers passengers a limited but functional selection of dining establishments. Do not expect the variety found in major hubs, but having a snack or a full lunch before departure is quite possible. The main food outlets are located in the public area before security control.

In the main hall of the terminal (landside), there is usually a small Chinese-style cafe where you can order hot meals. This is the best option for a hearty lunch. Being in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, be sure to take the opportunity to taste local cuisine. We recommend ordering the famous Uyghur Lagman — hand-pulled noodles with a rich sauce of meat and vegetables. The menu typically also includes more familiar Chinese dishes: fried rice with toppings or noodle soup.

After passing pre-flight security (airside), the choice is usually limited to a single small cafe or kiosk. Here you can have a quick snack by grabbing a coffee, tea, sandwich, or packaged pastry. This is a convenient option if there is very little time left before boarding. The assortment here is basic and designed for those in a hurry.

Prices at the airport are expectedly higher than in city establishments. The opening hours of cafes and restaurants are tied to the flight schedule: they open before the first departures and close after the last aircraft leaves. Passengers with special dietary needs (vegans, people with allergies) should note that a specialised menu is unlikely to be available, so it is safer to bring food with you.

To ensure your journey through Shihezi Huayuan Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of these proven tips. Planning ahead will help avoid stress and make your experience at Shihezi airport more comfortable.

Arrival Time at the Airport. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This will give you enough time to check in, drop off luggage, pass security control, and board the flight calmly, especially during peak hours.

Check-in and Security. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. Security control at airports in China can be quite thorough. Be prepared in advance to remove laptops, tablets, portable batteries (power banks), and liquid containers from your hand luggage.

Seat Selection. If it is possible to choose a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. Window seats will offer you beautiful views during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. For greater comfort on long flights, you can choose seats with extra legroom for an additional fee.

Hand Luggage. Remember standard restrictions: liquids can be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Pay special attention to portable batteries — they are permitted only in hand luggage, and the device must clearly show its capacity rating. Lighters and matches are often completely prohibited from carriage.

Transfer Passengers. If you have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether your luggage will be automatically checked through to the final destination. Leave enough time between flights (at least 2 hours), especially if you have to go through passport and customs control again.

Customs Control. When entering or leaving the country, you may need to fill out a customs declaration. Be sure to declare large amounts of cash and expensive goods. To avoid misunderstandings, familiarise yourself with the current customs regulations of China in advance.

Saving Time and Money. Research transport options to and from the airport in advance — public transport is often cheaper than taxis. Bring an empty water bottle to fill up after passing security control. Download offline maps of the city and airport so as not to depend on Wi-Fi.

In Case of Flight Delay. First, contact your airline representative for information on the flight status and possible options (for example, provision of meals or accommodation). Ensure your phone is charged. Having a book, a film on a tablet, or access to Wi-Fi will help pass the waiting time.