Xuzhou Guanyin Airport

Xuzhou Guanyin International Airport, opened in 1997, is a key transport hub in Jiangsu Province in eastern China. Its name is associated with the Goddess of Mercy, Guanyin, who is considered the patroness of travellers. The airport is notable for being one of the first in China to implement a biometric passenger identification system. With the commissioning of a spacious new terminal in 2018, its capacity has significantly increased, allowing it to service both domestic and international flights.

Xuzhou Guanyin Airport is a modern complex featuring two terminals. Terminal 2, opened in 2018, is used primarily for domestic flights, while Terminal 1 serves international destinations. The airport has a single runway 3,400 metres in length, capable of accommodating large aircraft. For the convenience of passengers, the facility offers various services including shops, restaurants, ATMs, and rest lounges. Transport connections to the city centre are provided by buses and taxis.

Below you will find contact information for Xuzhou Guanyin International Airport (XUZ), which may be useful when planning your journey.

• Official Website: Generally, the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations can be found on the airport's official web resource. The site is available at: http://www.xzairport.com/ (may be in Chinese).
• Inquiry Service Phone: For immediate information, you can call the main airport number: +86 516 8306 8114.
• Airport Address: Guanyin Town, Suining County, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China, 221141. The airport is located approximately 45 kilometres southeast of the city centre of Xuzhou.
• Email: An official public email address is often not provided. It is recommended to use the telephone or contact forms on the website for communication.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you encounter an issue with lost or damaged luggage, you should first contact your airline's representative. You can also contact the airport's baggage tracing service by phone: +86 516 8306 8113.
• Social Media: Main communication channels may be present on platforms popular in China, such as WeChat. Check the official website for links.
• Passenger Support Service: For general questions related to airport services, please contact the main inquiry number.

Xuzhou Guanyin Airport (XUZ) is located approximately 45 kilometres from the city centre of Xuzhou, and several convenient methods are available for passengers to reach it. The choice of the best option depends on your budget, time, and amount of luggage.

Public Transport

The most modern and efficient way to get to the airport is the Metro. The recently launched Line S1 directly connects the city centre with the airport terminals. The metro journey takes about 50-60 minutes and is very affordable, making it an ideal choice to avoid traffic jams. Another budget-friendly option is shuttle buses, which operate on fixed routes connecting the airport with major hotels, bus stations, and the railway station. The travel time by bus is approximately 70-90 minutes.

Taxi and Transfer

For maximum comfort, especially if you are travelling with children or heavy luggage, it is best to use a taxi. The journey from the city centre to the airport will take about 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. The cost will be significantly higher than public transport, but it is the fastest and most convenient "door-to-door" method. Ride-hailing apps like Didi are also popular in China and can offer competitive prices. You can also book a private transfer in advance.

Car Rental and Parking

If you prefer to drive yourself, car rental services are available. However, it is important to remember that foreign citizens generally require a Chinese driving licence to drive in the country. For those arriving at the airport in personal or rented vehicles, the complex features car parks offering both short-term and long-term parking.

Recommendations

Overall, the metro is the most balanced option in terms of price and speed. A taxi is recommended for those who value comfort and personal space. Shuttle buses are an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers who are not pressed for time.

Xuzhou Guanyin Airport (XUZ) is a modern and well-organised transport hub. Currently, passenger services are primarily handled by Terminal 2 (T2), which was opened in 2018. The older Terminal 1 (T1) was repurposed for other needs after the new one launched, so most travellers should focus on T2, which serves both domestic and international flights.

The layout of Terminal 2 is quite simple and intuitive. The building has several levels, which is standard for modern airports. The Departures Hall with check-in counters and security checkpoints is located on the upper floor, while the Arrivals Hall, housing baggage claim belts and customs control, is on the lower floor. Thanks to thoughtful navigation and signage in both Chinese and English, it is quite difficult to get lost here.

Since all major passenger operations are concentrated in a single terminal (T2), the issue of transfers between terminals is irrelevant for most tourists. This significantly simplifies the boarding and transfer process, eliminating the need to use shuttles or walk long distances.

The time required to complete formalities depends on how busy the airport is. On average, you should allow 1 to 1.5 hours for check-in and security for domestic flights and about 2 hours for international ones. During national holidays or morning peak hours, it is better to arrive with a little extra time.

Main Navigation Tip: Upon arrival at the airport, immediately check the information screens. They display the check-in counter numbers for your flight. After dropping off your luggage, follow the signs to the security zone and then to your boarding gate. The terminal structure is logical, and all zones are clearly marked.

The history of Xuzhou Guanyin Airport began relatively recently, but it is closely linked to the rapid economic growth of the region. The airport was officially opened on 8 November 1997, becoming a vital transport hub for the city of Xuzhou and the entire Huaihai economic zone. From the outset, it was designed as a modern complex capable of handling both domestic and international flights, which gave a powerful impetus to the development of local industry and tourism.

Over the years, passenger traffic and cargo turnover have consistently grown, necessitating significant infrastructure expansion. A key stage in the airport's development was the construction and commissioning of the second terminal (T2) in 2018. This large-scale modernisation not only increased capacity but also improved the level of comfort for passengers, offering them more spacious waiting lounges, new shops, and restaurants. Thanks to this, Xuzhou Guanyin Airport has strengthened its position as one of the key aviation centres in eastern China.

An interesting fact from the airport's history is that it is a dual-use facility — serving both civil and military purposes. This practice is common in the country and allows for the optimised use of expensive infrastructure. Despite this, the airport successfully manages a large flow of civil flights, constantly expanding its flight geography and attracting new airlines. Today, it continues to develop, playing an important role in the economic and social life of Jiangsu Province.

Xuzhou Guanyin Airport offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find various dining options — from cafes with light snacks and drinks to restaurants where you can experience local and international cuisine. For shopping enthusiasts, there are stores, including Duty Free, where you can purchase souvenirs, perfumes, cosmetics, and travel essentials.

For those who prefer to wait for their flight in a quieter environment, premium lounges and VIP zones are available. They offer a secluded space, snacks, drinks, and other privileges. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous charging stations for gadgets allow you to always stay connected.

The airport features bank branches and currency exchange points where necessary financial transactions can be made. For health-related issues, a medical centre is open 24/7, ready to provide first aid if needed.

Travellers with children can use the mother and child rooms, equipped with everything necessary for baby care. The airport also pays great attention to passengers with reduced mobility, providing special services, ramps, and equipped washrooms to ensure a barrier-free environment. If necessary, an escort service can be booked in advance.

Hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, which is convenient for transit passengers or those with early departures. For business travellers, conference rooms and business centres may be available, allowing you to hold a meeting or work in a quiet environment right at the airport.

At Xuzhou Guanyin Airport, passengers can find several options for a snack or a full meal, suiting various preferences and budgets. Although the selection here is not as extensive as in the capital airports of China, you certainly won't go hungry.

Most dining establishments are concentrated in the main terminal, both in the public area (before security) and in the departures area (after security). In the arrivals area, the selection is usually more modest and limited to small cafes and snack vending machines.

For those wishing to try local cuisine before flying out of Xuzhou, it is worth looking at restaurants offering traditional Chinese dishes. Often the menu includes various types of noodles, rice dishes, and dumplings. This is a great opportunity for a substantial meal. For a quicker bite, chain cafes and fast-food outlets are suitable, where you can order sandwiches, burgers, or pastries. There are also coffee shops in the terminal offering a standard range of hot and cold drinks, desserts, and light snacks.

Passengers with specific dietary requirements, such as vegetarian or Halal preferences, are advised to study the menu carefully. In many Chinese restaurants, you can ask for a dish to be prepared without meat, such as stir-fried vegetables with rice or vegetable noodle soup. Specialised vegan or certified Halal establishments may not be available, so it is best to clarify ingredients with the staff. The price range is generally average, as in most airports, but more budget-friendly options can be found in the food courts.

Most cafes and restaurants operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the last evening flight departs. If you are in a hurry, the best choice would be a coffee shop or fast food in the departures area, but if you have time before boarding, you can enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the restaurants in the public zone.

To ensure your journey through Xuzhou Guanyin Airport goes smoothly, make use of these tips. Planning ahead will help avoid stress and make the start or end of your trip more comfortable.

Arrival Time: For domestic flights within China, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, it is better to allow more time — about 3-4 hours. Airports in China can be busy, and security procedures take time, so a buffer is helpful.

Check-in and Security: Most airlines offer online check-in, which saves time. When going through security control, be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and other large electronics from your hand luggage. Particular attention in Chinese airports is paid to power banks: they can only be carried in hand luggage, and the capacity marking must be clearly visible on them.

Seat Selection: The standard advice applies here: a window seat offers beautiful views during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat gives more legroom and the ability to stand up without disturbing neighbours. If you are rushing for a transfer, choose seats in the front of the cabin for a quicker exit.

Hand Luggage: Remember the standard restrictions on liquids — all containers must be no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. As mentioned, all power banks and spare lithium batteries must be in hand luggage only.

Transfer Passengers: If you have a connecting flight in Xuzhou, clarify when booking whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. Leave a sufficient time gap between flights — at least 2-3 hours — to calmly complete all formalities.

Customs Control: Upon entering the country, you may need to fill out an arrival card. If you are carrying goods subject to declaration, be sure to report this at customs. For domestic flights within mainland China, customs control is not required.

Saving Time and Money: To save money, explore public transport options going from the airport to the city. This is often cheaper than a taxi. Bring an empty reusable water bottle with you — after passing security, you can fill it at special fountains for free.

In Case of Flight Delay: First, find an information screen or contact your airline representative to clarify the flight status. Know your rights: in some cases, the airline is obliged to provide meals or hotel accommodation. Having travel insurance that covers such instances is also a big plus.