Tongliao Airport

Tongliao Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to the world of boundless steppes and the rich culture of Inner Mongolia. Located just a few minutes' drive from the city centre, it welcomes travellers with a cosy atmosphere and modern infrastructure that has been significantly upgraded in recent years. Your journey into the legendary Horqin lands, where nomadic history intertwines with the dynamic rhythm of modern life, begins here.

The airport boasts several features that make it convenient for both transit and direct passengers. Thanks to the terminal's compact size, navigation here is intuitive, and check-in and security procedures are significantly faster than in giant hubs. Following recent reconstruction and the expansion of the runway, the airport is capable of accommodating more types of aircraft, ensuring stable connections with China's major metropolises, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an.

A key advantage of this air harbour is its location. Situated just 10–12 kilometres from the centre of Tongliao, the airport allows tourists to reach their hotel or local attractions in literally 20 minutes by taxi. It is an ideal starting point for those planning to visit the region's famous grasslands and nature reserves without wasting time on long transfers.

Below is the contact information for Tongliao Airport (TGO). Please note that details may change, and for the most accurate information, it is recommended to visit official resources or contact airport representatives or your airline directly.

• Official Website: Tongliao Airport is managed by the Inner Mongolia Civil Aviation Airport Group. Current information can be found on their corporate portal at www.nmgjcjt.com (website in Chinese).
• Inquiry Service Phone: +86 475 881 1807. Please be aware that staff are most likely to speak Chinese.
• Airport Address: Horqin District, Tongliao, Inner Mongolia, China.
• Email: An official email address for general inquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official pages on international social media platforms.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative at the airport first. Contact details can also be clarified via the general inquiry phone number.
• Passenger Support Service: For consultations and support, please use the airport's main inquiry phone number.

Getting to Tongliao Airport (TGO) from the centre of Tongliao can be done in several ways, each offering its own advantages in terms of cost and convenience. The airport is located relatively close to the city, so the journey will not take much time, and the choice of transport allows you to plan your trip according to any budget.

Public Transport. The most economical option is the airport shuttle. Special buses run between the airport and key points in the city, such as the central bus station and the railway station. This is a convenient method if you are travelling light. The ticket price is usually around 10–20 RMB. The shuttle schedule is coordinated with flight arrivals and departures, but it is always recommended to check in advance as it may be subject to change.

Taxi and Transfers. Taking a taxi is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach the airport. The travel time from the city centre is usually about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of the trip generally varies from 40 to 60 RMB. In China, taxi-hailing apps like DiDi are widely used, which can be a convenient alternative to hailing a car on the street. It is recommended to use official taxi services and ensure the driver switches on the meter. For maximum peace of mind, you can book a private transfer in advance, especially if you are travelling with a lot of luggage or do not speak the local language.

Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to move around the region actively, you can rent a car. However, it is worth remembering that foreign tourists require a local driving licence to drive in China. For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is provided on the airport grounds, where you can leave your car for both short and long periods. This is a convenient option if you are seeing off or meeting passengers.

Tongliao Airport (TGO) is a modern and compact aviation hub characterised by a structure that is simple and clear for passengers. The airport operates one passenger terminal, serving all domestic flights. Thanks to this, navigating the building causes no difficulties even for those visiting for the first time.

The terminal layout is logical and intuitive. The first floor houses check-in counters and the arrival area with baggage claim belts. After check-in, passengers proceed to the second floor, where the security checkpoint and boarding gates are located. Since there is only one terminal, no transfers between terminals are required — all procedures take place in a single building.

Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. The departure zone, after security control, offers passengers a small waiting hall with several boarding gates. The arrival zone is located on the first floor and leads directly to the airport exit and taxi stands.

Thanks to the airport's small size and the efficient work of the staff, the time required to complete all formalities is usually minimal. Flight check-in and security screening take significantly less time than in major international hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport as standard — 1.5-2 hours before departure, to complete all procedures without rushing.

For navigation, simply follow the signs in Chinese and English. The compactness of the terminal makes it very convenient: it is practically impossible to get lost here, and the walk from the building entrance to the boarding gate takes just a few minutes.

The history of Tongliao Airport (TGO) is a clear example of how a modest airfield can transform into an important regional transport hub. Its journey began long before the era of mass tourism. Initially, it was a military airfield built back in 1933. The first steps in civil aviation were taken in 1958, when the airport began accepting irregular civil flights, although full-scale and stable development began much later.

A key moment in the airport's history was 1992, when a project for its massive reconstruction and expansion for civil needs was approved. In June 1995, the renovated airport was officially opened, receiving a 3C classification and the ability to accommodate medium-haul aircraft. This event gave a powerful impetus to the development of transport accessibility for the city and the entire region.

The next important stage of modernisation occurred in the mid-2000s. In 2007, construction began on a new, more modern terminal, which was completed in December 2008. Along with the new terminal, the airport was upgraded to class 4C, allowing it to accept larger aircraft such as the Boeing 737. This significantly expanded the flight geography and increased passenger traffic, connecting Tongliao with the largest cities in China.

The most large-scale reconstruction in the airport's recent history was completed in 2017. As part of this project, a new runway was built, and the main terminal was significantly expanded. The capacity of the air harbour grew several times over, allowing it to serve millions of passengers a year. Today, Tongliao Airport is a modern transport complex playing a key role in the economic and social life of Inner Mongolia.

Tongliao Airport (TGO) strives to ensure a comfortable and pleasant stay for passengers by offering a wide range of services and amenities within its terminal. Regardless of the purpose of your trip, you will find everything necessary for a peaceful wait for your flight.

Various cafés and restaurants are located in the terminal building, where you can grab a quick snack or have a full meal, enjoying dishes of local and international cuisine. For those wishing to buy gifts or travel essentials, souvenir stalls and shops are available. Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for gadgets allow you to stay connected at all times.

For passengers who value enhanced comfort, VIP lounges are provided where you can relax in silence and utilise additional services. Financial matters can be easily resolved with the help of ATMs and currency exchange points. In case of need, a medical centre operates at the airport, ready to provide first aid.

Special attention is paid to the convenience of all categories of passengers. Mother and child rooms are equipped for travellers with children. For passengers with reduced mobility, a barrier-free environment has been created, and special assistance is provided. If you require overnight accommodation, there are several hotels in the immediate vicinity of the airport. For business travellers, business centres or conference rooms may be available for holding meetings.

At Tongliao Airport (TGO), travellers can do more than just grab a snack; they can experience the unique cuisine of Inner Mongolia. Although the airport may not boast dozens of establishments, the available cafés and restaurants offer a good selection of both local and familiar Chinese dishes.

The main pride of the local food court is the opportunity to taste authentic Mongolian cuisine. Look for establishments featuring hearty meat dishes on the menu, which are the region's hallmark and often suitable for those seeking Halal-friendly options (though certification should be checked locally). Be sure to try the roasted lamb or the traditional boiled lamb eaten by hand (shou-zhua-rou). Another local speciality is salty Mongolian milk tea (suutei tsai), which warms and invigorates perfectly. Such establishments are usually located in the public zone before security control.

For those in a hurry or preferring familiar tastes, the airport has several reliable options. You can often find cafés from well-known chains here, for example, "Mr. Lee" (李先生), famous for its beef noodles. Kiosks selling steamed buns (baozi) and dumplings (jiaozi) are also popular. A full meal in a local café will cost approximately 50-80 RMB per person, while a quick snack will be significantly cheaper.

Most dining establishments are concentrated in the main terminal building, both in the public area (landside) and in the secure departure zone (airside). Travellers with special dietary needs (vegetarians, vegans) may find it challenging to find certified dishes, but one can always order rice with stewed vegetables or clarify ingredients with the staff. Opening hours for cafés and restaurants are generally tied to the flight schedule: they open a few hours before the first departure and close after the last flight leaves.

Planning a trip through Tongliao Airport can be simple and convenient if you know a few key points. Here are some tips to help you save time, stress, and money during your journey across China.

Arrival Time at the Airport. Tongliao Airport (TGO) is not among the giant transport hubs, so procedures here usually go faster. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient to calmly complete check-in, drop off luggage, and pass through security without unnecessary haste.

Check-in and Security. To save time, use online check-in for your flight if your airline provides this option. Keep your passport and ticket ready at the check-in counters. During security screening, remove laptops, tablets, and liquid containers from your hand luggage in advance. This is a standard procedure that will help speed up the process.

Seat Selection. If it is possible to select a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. Window seats (A, F) offer beautiful views during take-off and landing. Aisle seats (C, D) are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight. Seats in the front of the cabin usually allow for a quicker exit from the aircraft upon arrival.

Hand Luggage. Remember the general rules: liquids can be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in hand luggage. Always check the weight and dimension allowances for hand luggage on your airline's website to avoid extra charges at the airport.

Transfer Passengers. If you have a connecting flight, ensure there is enough time between flights when purchasing your ticket (at least 1.5–2 hours). Clarify whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage in Tongliao. Usually, on domestic flights with the same airline, luggage is transferred automatically.

Customs Control. Since Tongliao Airport serves predominantly domestic flights, most passengers do not encounter customs control here. However, if you are flying from an international airport with a transfer in Tongliao, you will likely pass all customs formalities at your first airport of arrival in China.

Saving Time and Money. Book your transfer from the airport in advance or study public transport routes. To avoid overpaying for food and drinks, bring light snacks and an empty water bottle, which can be filled at special water fountains after passing security.

Flight Delays. In the event of a flight delay, remain calm. Monitor information on the departure boards and listen to announcements. Contact your airline representative for the latest information. During long delays, airlines are obliged to provide passengers with drinks, meals, and sometimes hotel accommodation.