Xichang Airport

Xichang Qingshan Airport is a key transport hub for the Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture and the starting point for exploring the mysterious "City of the Moon". Located in a picturesque valley, this airport not only connects the region with China's major metropolises but also serves as the gateway to the famous spaceport and the beautiful Qionghai Lake. Despite its compact size, the terminal is distinguished by its coziness and allows travellers to begin their immersion into the unique culture of the local people immediately upon arrival.

Airport Features and Highlights:

• Strategic Location: The airport is located just 14 km from the city centre, allowing you to reach hotels and main attractions, such as Qionghai Lake, in less than half an hour.
• Space Gateway: It is the nearest civil airport to the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre, making it popular among tourists interested in astronautics.
• Scenic Views: During takeoff and landing, passengers are treated to breathtaking panoramas of the Anning River valley and the surrounding mountain ranges characteristic of Sichuan Province.
• Convenience and Speed: Thanks to the small passenger flow and the compactness of the terminal, completing pre-flight formalities here takes much less time than in large hubs.

Below is the main contact information for Xichang Airport (XIC). Please note that this is a domestic airport, and some communication channels may be limited.

• Official Website: Finding a separate official website for Xichang Airport can be difficult. It is recommended to check the most up-to-date information on flight schedules, baggage rules, and online check-in on the websites of airlines flying to Xichang.
• Information Desk Phone: The main contact number for inquiries is: +86 834 252 5000. Please consider that knowledge of the Chinese language will likely be required for communication.
• Airport Address: Xichang Qingshan Airport (XIC), Xichang City, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China.
• Email: There is no public email address for general inquiries. It is recommended to use the phone or contact your airline for communication.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official pages on popular international social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must immediately contact the Lost & Found service at the airport or your airline representative.
• Passenger Support Service: Assistance to passengers regarding flight-related issues is provided by airline representatives. For general questions regarding navigation and services in the terminal, you can contact the information desk.

Getting to Xichang Airport (Xichang Qingshan Airport, XIC) from the city centre of Xichang is quite simple, as it is located just 18 kilometres away. Depending on the chosen transport, traffic conditions, and your budget, the trip will take from 30 to 60 minutes. The main options are public transport, taxi, or a rented car.

The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is to use the special airport buses. They operate on specific routes, connecting the air harbour with key points in the city, including major hotels and bus stations. Although this is not the fastest option, it allows for significant savings. It is best to check the exact schedule and cost on-site, as they may change.

Taxi is the most comfortable and fastest way to reach the terminal. You can hail a car on the street, call one via an app, or book a transfer through your hotel in advance. The trip from the city centre will take about 30-40 minutes excluding traffic jams. This is an ideal choice for travellers with large luggage or those who value their time. It is recommended to ensure the driver has turned on the meter, or agree on a fixed price before starting the trip to avoid misunderstandings.

For those who prefer complete freedom of movement around China, car rental points operate at the airport and in Xichang itself. This is an excellent option if you plan to explore not only the city but also its picturesque surroundings. If you arrive at the airport in your own or a rented car, parking is at your service. There are both short-term and long-term parking zones located in the immediate vicinity of the terminal.

In general, the choice of transport to Xichang Airport depends on your priorities. The bus is suitable for budget-conscious tourists travelling light. A taxi ensures maximum comfort and speed, especially if you are travelling with family or heavy suitcases. And car rental will provide independence in travelling through this amazing region.

The airport of Xichang (XIC), also known as Qingshan, is a modern and compact aviation hub serving domestic flights within China. The main feature of the airport, which will please many travellers, lies in its simple and clear structure. There is one passenger terminal operating here, which completely eliminates confusion with transfers between buildings and makes navigation intuitive.

The terminal layout is logical and simple. Arrival and departure zones are clearly separated for passenger convenience. Typically, the arrival zone with baggage claim belts and the exit to the city is located on the ground floor. The first floor is dedicated to the departure zone: check-in counters, security checkpoints, and waiting halls with boarding gates are located here. Thanks to the compact dimensions of the terminal, all key points — from the entrance to the gate — are within walking distance of each other.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Xichang Airport usually takes significantly less time than in large international hubs. Flight check-in and security screening generally proceed quickly and without fuss. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance — approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time will be quite sufficient to check in luggage without rushing, pass through control, and find your boarding gate.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the signs, which are duplicated in English. Airport staff are generally ready to help if you have any questions. Thanks to the thoughtful layout and small size, Xichang Airport leaves a pleasant impression and is a convenient starting point for travelling around the region.

The history of Xichang Airport (XIC) is unique and closely intertwined with the ambitious space programme of China. The airport was opened in 1975, and its primary task initially was not so much to serve passenger flights as to provide logistics for one of the country's most important facilities — the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre, located nearby. This determined its special status and development path.

For many years, the airport functioned in a dual mode: as a military airfield and as a civil air harbour. The main stages of its development were not solely about increasing passenger flow, but modernising the runway and infrastructure to receive heavy transport aircraft. Components of launch vehicles, satellites, and other high-tech equipment were delivered through it. Many landmark events in the history of Chinese astronautics, including the launch of the first commercial American satellite "AsiaSat-1" in 1990, began with the arrival of specialists and cargo at this very airport.

At the beginning of the 21st century, with the growth of tourist interest in the city of Xichang and its surroundings, the need for modernisation arose. After a fire in the terminal in 2002, a large-scale reconstruction was carried out. As a result, the airport received a new, more modern, and comfortable passenger terminal, which allowed for significantly improved service quality and increased capacity while maintaining its strategic importance.

The most interesting fact in the history of Xichang Airport is its unofficial title of "Space Harbour". Unlike giant international hubs, its main achievement is measured not by millions of passengers, but by its contribution to science and space exploration. For many travellers, especially those interested in technology, the very thought that they are landing in a place that served as a gateway for numerous space missions adds a special, inspiring meaning to the trip.

The airport of Xichang (XIC) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is designed taking into account modern requirements for traveller convenience and safety.

Dining and Shops. several cafes and small restaurants operate in the airport, where you can have a snack before departure, ordering dishes of both local and Western cuisine. Souvenir and other shops offer a selection of goods, including traditional souvenirs of China, tea, as well as travel essentials.

Waiting Halls and Wi-Fi. Comfortable waiting halls are equipped for all passengers. For those who value increased comfort, VIP lounges with a calmer atmosphere and additional services are available. Free Wi-Fi is active throughout the terminal, and stands for charging electronic devices are installed, allowing you to always stay connected.

Financial and Medical Services. In the terminal building, you can find ATMs and currency exchange points to resolve financial matters. In case of necessity, a medical post operates in the terminal, where first aid will be provided.

Services for Special Categories of Passengers. The airport is equipped for the comfortable movement of passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps and special restrooms. Families with small children can use the mother and child room, where all conditions for caring for babies in a quiet environment are provided.

Accommodation and Business Services. There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, however, many accommodation options are located in the immediate vicinity in the city. For business travellers, basic business services may be available in VIP lounges, but specialised conference centres are not provided in the terminal.

When planning a departure from Xichang Airport (XIC), it is important to understand that this is a small regional aviation hub in China, and the choice of catering establishments corresponds to this. Do not expect a food court with global chains, however, it is quite possible to refresh yourself before a flight. Dining options are mainly represented by a few Chinese-style cafes and points with drinks and snacks located in the single terminal.

The main cafes where you can order a full hot meal are located in the public zone (landside), before passing security control. A couple of small restaurants usually operate here, offering basic Sichuan dishes. After screening, in the sterile zone (airside), the choice is generally reduced to a small cafe or kiosk where you can buy beverages, sandwiches, and packaged snacks. Prices in the airport are predictably higher than in the city but remain within reason for airports of this scale.

If time permits, take the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine one last time. Look for simple but filling dishes on the menu, such as spicy noodles, fried rice, or dumplings. For a quick snack, a coffee shop or food vending machines are suitable. Opening hours of establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule: they open a few hours before the first departure and close after the last one departs.

Passengers with special dietary requirements should be prepared for difficulties. Finding certified vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes in a small airport is practically impossible. Vegetarians can try ordering vegetable or tofu dishes, but it is necessary to clarify the ingredients of sauces with the staff. The most reliable option for those adhering to a strict diet is to bring food with you.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Xichang city goes smoothly, make use of these tips. Planning and knowing some nuances will help save time, money, and stress, making the start and end of your trip around China as comfortable as possible.

Arrival Time and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before departure for domestic routes. This will give you enough time to check in for the flight, drop off luggage, and pass pre-flight screening without rushing. If possible, check in online — this will save you time in queues.

Passing Security. At security control, be ready in advance to remove laptops, tablets, and other large electronic devices from your hand luggage. Liquids are permitted in containers with a volume of no more than 100 ml, packed in one transparent bag. Pay special attention to power banks (external batteries): strict rules apply in China regarding their carriage — only in hand luggage and with clearly visible capacity markings.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider that Sichuan is a mountainous region with breathtaking views. A window seat will gift you beautiful panoramas. If comfort and the ability to stretch your legs are a priority, choose an aisle seat. Do not put sharp objects in hand luggage, and always keep all valuables, documents, and medicines with you.

Transfers and Customs. If you have a connecting flight, clarify when checking luggage whether you will need to collect and re-check it. In the transit zone, follow the "Transfers" signs. For international flights, remember the "green" and "red" channel system at customs. If you are unsure whether your items need to be declared, it is better to choose the "red" channel and consult with an inspector.

Savings and Flight Delays. To save money, book flight tickets in advance and consider public transport for travel to and from the airport. Bring an empty water bottle with you — after security screening, it can be filled at drinking fountains. In case of a flight delay, do not panic: contact your airline representative to find out about the flight status and services due to you (water, food, hotel accommodation for long delays).