Sunan Shuofang International Airport

Sunan Shuofang International Airport (WUX) is not merely the gateway to Wuxi, but one of the key transport hubs in the thriving Yangtze River Delta region of China. Its name "Sunan," meaning "Southern Jiangsu," highlights its strategic importance as it serves two major cities simultaneously — Wuxi and neighbouring Suzhou. Opened for civil flights in 2004 on the site of a former military airfield, it has today transformed into a modern and convenient hub. Thanks to its compact size and clear navigation, which is duplicated in English, finding your way around is easy even for first-time travellers.

Sunan Shuofang Airport is valued for its efficiency and comfort. It consists of two terminals: T1 for international flights and T2 for domestic ones. One of its main advantages is its excellent transport accessibility — a station for Metro Line 3 is located right inside the airport, allowing for a quick and traffic-free journey to the city centre of Wuxi. For the convenience of passengers, the terminals feature business lounges, nursing rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a wide selection of cafes and restaurants — ranging from international chains to establishments serving authentic local cuisine. Travellers can also make use of duty-free shops and souvenir stalls to purchase memorable gifts.

To contact representatives of Sunan Shuofang International Airport (WUX), you may use the following details:

• Official Website: www.wuxiairport.com (the site is primarily in Chinese; an online translator may be required).
• Inquiry Service Phone: +86 510 96889788. This is the main number for most queries, including flight schedules and airport services.
• Address: Airport Road, Shuofang, Xinwu District, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the feedback form on the official website (if available) or call via telephone.
• Lost & Found: For issues related to lost or found items within the airport premises, please contact the main inquiry service number. If your luggage was lost by the airline, please contact their representative office directly.
• Passenger Support Service: Comprehensive support for passengers, including persons with reduced mobility, is provided upon request via the main airport phone number or at information desks within the terminal.

Reaching Sunan Shuofang International Airport (WUX) from the centre of Wuxi and neighbouring cities is possible via several convenient methods. Thanks to the region's well-developed transport infrastructure, every traveller can choose the optimal option, be it high-speed public transport or a private transfer. On average, a trip from the central part of the city takes 30 to 45 minutes, although this time may vary depending on the chosen mode of transport and traffic conditions.

The fastest and most reliable way to get to the terminal is by metro. Line 3 of the Wuxi Metro has a station named "Sunan Shuofang International Airport," located directly within the airport building. This allows you to avoid any traffic jams and accurately calculate your travel time. Additionally, specialised shuttle buses run from key points in the city, including the main railway station. This is a more budget-friendly option that also connects the airport with the neighbouring city of Suzhou, but please note that the bus journey will take longer.

For those who value comfort, travel with bulky luggage, or are with family, the ideal choice would be a taxi or a car booked via mobile apps popular in China. A "door-to-door" trip will cost more than public transport but ensures maximum convenience. We recommend having the airport name and address written in Chinese. A pre-booked private transfer service is also available, which is particularly relevant for those departing on night flights.

If your plans include not only visiting Wuxi but also exploring the surroundings on your own, you can use the car rental service. Rental company counters are located right at the airport. For drivers arriving in personal or rented vehicles, a large car park operates on the airport grounds, offering both short-term and long-term parking. It is worth remembering that a local driving licence is usually required to drive a car in China.

Sunan Shuofang Airport is the main hub for Wuxi; however, when planning your journey through the region, alternative options can also be considered. Other major transport hubs are located nearby, such as Changzhou Airport or Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, which can be reached by high-speed trains or intercity buses.

Sunan Shuofang International Airport (WUX) consists of two passenger terminals — T1 and T2. They are located in separate but closely situated buildings, and the distribution of passenger flows between them is organised very simply: Terminal 1 serves all international flights (including flights to Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan), while Terminal 2 handles exclusively domestic flights within mainland China.

The terminals are within walking distance of each other and are connected by a convenient covered walkway. This compact and logical structure makes navigating the airport intuitively clear even for first-time visitors. You will not require special transport to move between T1 and T2, which saves significant time during transfers.

Terminal 2 is the main and larger terminal of the airport, where all domestic traffic is concentrated. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. Check-in counters and the security screening area leading to boarding gates are located on the upper levels. The arrival zone with baggage reclaim belts is situated on the ground floor. The terminal is well-equipped: there are numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can pass the time while waiting for your flight.

Terminal 1, designed for international destinations, is noticeably smaller in size but offers all necessary services for travellers. Here you will find check-in counters, passport control and customs points, as well as duty-free shops. Despite its compactness, it effectively handles the international passenger flow.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Sunan Shuofang Airport usually takes less time than in giant hubs like Beijing or Shanghai. 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 process, baggage drop, and security control.

The main advice for passengers is to check your ticket in advance to know exactly which terminal your flight departs from (T1 for international or T2 for domestic flights). All navigation in the airport is duplicated in English, and the signs are clear and understandable. Thanks to the thoughtful layout and moderate size of the airport, getting lost here is practically impossible.

The history of Sunan Shuofang International Airport is unique in that it was not originally created as a civil facility. Its story began in 1955 with the construction of the Shuofang military airfield. For decades, it served exclusively the purposes of the Air Force of China, and only at the turn of the century did the idea of its dual-use arise to stimulate the economic development of the region.

The turning point occurred on 18 February 2004, when the airport officially opened for commercial passenger transport, serving the city of Wuxi and neighbouring industrial centres. This decision gave a powerful impetus to the development of transport infrastructure throughout Jiangsu Province. Initially, the airport was modest in size, but its potential was evident from the very beginning.

Development proceeded at a rapid pace. By 2007, the first international flights were launched, connecting Wuxi with Osaka and Hong Kong. An important milestone in history was the renaming of the airport in 2010 to "Sunan Shuofang International Airport". The new name highlighted its regional significance — it began to serve not only Wuxi but the entire southern Jiangsu region (Sunan), including metropolises such as Suzhou and Changzhou.

To cope with the constantly growing passenger flow, the airport underwent massive reconstruction. A second runway was built, and in 2015, the grand opening of the new, modern Terminal 2 took place. This modernisation significantly increased capacity and brought service quality to an international level. Interestingly, Sunan Shuofang is also a major cargo hub, particularly for one of Asia's largest courier companies, SF Airlines, underscoring its strategic importance in the country's logistics network.

Sunan Shuofang International Airport (WUX) offers passengers a wide range of services to make waiting for a flight as comfortable and productive as possible. Regardless of the purpose of your trip — be it a business meeting or a long-awaited holiday — here you will find everything necessary for a pleasant experience.

The airport terminal houses numerous restaurants and cafes where you can have a meal before your flight, enjoying dishes of both local and international cuisine. For shopping enthusiasts, stores are open, including Duty Free, featuring a large selection of souvenirs, cosmetics, accessories, and travel goods. This is an excellent opportunity to buy gifts for loved ones or treat yourself.

For those who appreciate enhanced comfort, VIP halls and lounges are available. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, read the latest press, or work. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations will allow you to stay connected at all times.

Other essential services are also available to passengers. The airport has bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points. In case of need, you can visit the medical centre for first aid. For travellers with small children, nursing rooms are equipped with all conditions for baby care.

Sunan Shuofang Airport cares about the comfort of all categories of passengers. A barrier-free environment has been created for people with disabilities: there are ramps, lifts, and specially equipped toilets, as well as an escort service. If you need to hold a business meeting, conference rooms and business centres are at your disposal. And for those who need to rest between flights, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, many of which offer transfer services.

At Sunan Shuofang International Airport (WUX), serving the cities of Wuxi and Suzhou, passengers will find diverse dining spots capable of satisfying any appetite and budget. Establishments range from those serving authentic local cuisine to popular international chains offering quick and familiar snack options.

Most cafes and restaurants are located in the departure zone (airside), after passing passport control and security screening. Here, travellers can leisurely enjoy a full lunch or dinner. This zone features restaurants specialising in Jiangnan region cuisine, where you can taste famous local dishes. Chain coffee shops and fast-food outlets are also in operation. In the public zone (landside), before security, the selection is usually more modest and includes coffee shops and small eateries, ideally suited for those seeing someone off or those with plenty of time before their flight.

Once at the airport, be sure to look for establishments offering specialties of China, particularly Jiangsu Province. Look for dishes on the menu such as Wuxi-style pork ribs in sweet and sour sauce or the famous xiaolongbao steamed dumplings. Noodle bars are another excellent option for a quick, filling, and delicious meal before a flight.

For those who prefer more familiar food, international-standard coffee shops operate in the airport, where you can order coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarians will find it easiest to find suitable dishes in Chinese cuisine restaurants — menus often feature vegetable side dishes, tofu, and rice dishes. It is best to check directly with the establishment's staff regarding the availability of vegan, gluten-free, or halal options, as their availability is not guaranteed.

The price range at the airport varies from moderate at fast-food points to higher at full-service restaurants, which is standard for most air terminals. Most establishments operate from early morning until the last flight departs; however, opening hours may change, so for night or very early flights, it is worth checking available options in advance.

To ensure your journey through Sunan Shuofang International Airport goes smoothly and without unnecessary stress, make use of these useful tips. Proper preparation is key to a comfortable start and end to your trip.

Arrival Time: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights within China — 1.5-2 hours. This will give you a sufficient buffer of time for a calm check-in, baggage drop, and pre-flight security screening.

Check-in and Security: If possible, check in for your flight online to avoid queues at the counters. Security services in Chinese airports work very thoroughly. Prepare all liquids (in containers no larger than 100 ml each) in a transparent bag in advance and be ready to remove laptops and other large gadgets from your hand luggage. Pay special attention to portable chargers (power banks) — they can only be carried in hand luggage, and the capacity marking must be clearly visible on the casing.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage: When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: by the window for view lovers, by the aisle for those who want the freedom to stand up. In your hand luggage, besides standard prohibited items, do not pack lighters or matches. Check the current rules of your airline to avoid unpleasant surprises.

For Transfer Passengers: If you have a connecting flight in Wuxi, check in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. When transferring from an international to a domestic flight (or vice versa), you will need to pass border and customs control, so ensure you have enough time between flights (at least 2-3 hours).

Customs Control: When entering or leaving the country, you may need to fill out a declaration form. Keep your passport and boarding pass handy. If you are carrying items subject to declaration (large sums of cash, expensive electronics, cultural valuables), familiarise yourself with customs regulations in advance.

Saving Time and Money: Research options for getting from the airport to the city beforehand. Often, using official taxis or public transport is more cost-effective. Free Wi-Fi at the airport will help you stay connected. A small snack and a water bottle (which can be filled after security checks) will also help save money.

In Case of Flight Delay: First, contact your airline's counter for the latest information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for meals or even hotel accommodation. Always keep your most important items (documents, money, medication, chargers) in your hand luggage in case of unforeseen situations.