Zhanjiang Airport

Zhanjiang Wuchuan Airport is a modern aerial gateway, offering travellers access to the charm of the Leizhou Peninsula and the entire western part of Guangdong Province. Opened in March 2022, it replaced the old city airport, becoming a symbol of the region's dynamic development. The new airport is designed according to the most modern standards to ensure maximum comfort and convenience for passengers from their very first moments on the hospitable land of Zhanjiang.

The main advantage of the airport is its modern infrastructure. With a 4E class rating, it is capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft, opening up possibilities for long-haul flights. The spacious and bright terminal, covering an area of over 60,000 square metres, offers passengers all necessary services: from comfortable lounges and diverse dining options to shops and convenient navigation. The airport was designed with future growth in mind; its capacity is over 5 million passengers per year, making it a key transport hub for business travellers and tourists exploring the south of China.

Here you will find useful contacts for the airport serving the city of Zhanjiang. It is important to note that since the spring of 2022, all flights are handled by the new modern terminal — Zhanjiang Wuchuan Airport (IATA: ZHA), located in Guangdong Province, China.

• Official Website: www.gdzjairport.com. The site is in Chinese, but you can use your browser's automatic translation function.
• Information Desk Phone: +86 759 881 8888. This is the main number for inquiries regarding flights, schedules, and airport services.
• Airport Address: Tangzhui Town, Wuchuan, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China.
• Email: An official email for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to contact them via phone.
• Social Media: The airport may have official accounts on popular Chinese social networks, such as WeChat. Links to these are usually found on the official website.
• Lost & Found: If you have lost items within the terminal, please contact the Lost & Found service at: +86 759 881 8889.
• Customer Service Contacts: For assistance and consultations at the airport, you can call the main information desk number.

You can reach Zhanjiang Airport from the city centre in several ways, allowing you to choose the most suitable option depending on your budget, time, and preferences. The airport is located at a moderate distance from the central districts of Zhanjiang, and the journey usually does not take much time.

Public Transport is one of the most accessible methods. Dedicated shuttle buses run regularly between the airport and key points in the city, including major hotels and train stations. This is an economical choice, ideal for solo travellers or those who are not in a rush. The bus journey takes approximately 40–60 minutes, depending on the route and traffic conditions. Although not the fastest option, it allows for significant savings.

Taxi or Transfer is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the terminal. A taxi ride from the city centre takes about 25–40 minutes, excluding traffic jams. It is recommended to use official metered taxis or book a car through mobile apps popular in China. The cost will be higher than the bus, but the comfort and speed justify the price difference, especially if you are travelling with family or a large amount of luggage. A pre-booked transfer guarantees a fixed price and a meet-and-greet service.

For those who prefer complete freedom of movement, car rental is an excellent solution. Rental agencies operate in the city and at the airport itself, offering vehicles to suit all tastes. This is convenient if you plan not only a trip to the airport but also independent travel around the region. Please note that foreign citizens generally require a Chinese driving licence or a temporary permit to rent a car. The airport provides parking facilities where you can leave your car for both short and long periods.

Zhanjiang Airport (ZHA) is a modern and well-organised aviation complex designed with maximum passenger convenience in mind. All operations are concentrated in one large and functional terminal, serving both domestic and international flights. This significantly simplifies navigation, as travellers do not need to worry about transferring between different buildings.

The terminal layout is intuitive and meets global standards. Generally, the building is divided into several levels:

• Departure Area: Usually located on the upper floor. Here you will find airline check-in counters, baggage drop-off points, and subsequently, the security screening area. After passing through security, passengers enter the secure zone featuring boarding gates, shops, and restaurants.
• Arrival Area: Located on the lower floor. Arriving passengers proceed to baggage claim belts, pass through customs and border control (if applicable), and exit into the general hall where they are met by greeters or can find transport to the city.

Since the airport has only one terminal, the issue of transfers between terminals is not relevant, making it ideal for passengers with short connections or first-time travellers. All signs are clear, and information is displayed in both Chinese and English, making orientation very easy.

Regarding procedure times, thanks to modern equipment and efficient logistics, check-in and screening are quite fast. However, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight and 2.5–3 hours before an international flight. This will give you a sufficient buffer to complete all formalities without rushing, have a coffee, and find your boarding gate.

The history of Zhanjiang Airport (ZHA) is essentially the story of two airports, one of which replaced the other, passing on its name and code. The original airport, which served the city for nearly 70 years, began its life as a military airfield back in the 1930s. It was officially opened for civil aviation in 1952, becoming one of the oldest civil airports in Guangdong Province.

For decades, the airport was the main aviation hub for the western part of the province. It underwent several stages of modernisation and expansion, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s, to meet the growing needs of the region and to accommodate more modern aircraft. Its operations were closely linked to the economic growth and tourism development in Zhanjiang and its surroundings.

A key event in the airport's recent history was its closure. Due to its location within the city limits and the impossibility of further expansion, a decision was made to build a new, larger, and more modern airport outside Zhanjiang. On 24 March 2022, the old Zhanjiang Xishan Airport ceased operations. All operational activities, staff, and even the IATA code (ZHA) were transferred to the new Zhanjiang Wuchuan Airport. This "relocation" marked the final chapter in the history of the old airport, which had faithfully served the region for generations.

Zhanjiang Airport (ZHA) offers passengers a wide range of services to make waiting for a flight as comfortable and productive as possible. The terminal infrastructure is designed to meet the needs of various categories of travellers.

For those wishing to have a meal or do some shopping, the airport features several restaurants and cafes, offering both local Chinese dishes and more familiar international options. In the shops, you can purchase souvenirs, travel essentials, press, and duty-free products. This is a great opportunity to buy gifts for loved ones or small items needed for your journey.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations and sockets are provided for electronic devices. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can utilise the VIP lounges, where one can relax, work, or have a snack in a quiet atmosphere away from the main bustle.

To handle financial matters, the airport has bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points. In case of necessity, passengers can visit the medical centre, where first aid and consultations are available.

Special attention is paid to passengers with children and people with reduced mobility. Mother and child rooms are equipped for travellers with little ones. For passengers with limited mobility, a barrier-free environment has been created, including ramps, special restrooms, and the option to request assistance services.

Although hotels may not be located directly within the terminal building, several hotels of various price categories are situated in the immediate vicinity of the airport, offering transfers for their guests. For business travellers, business services such as conference halls or meeting rooms may be available, allowing for effective use of time even while waiting for departure.

At Zhanjiang Airport, passengers have a choice of catering establishments, allowing for a quick snack before departure or a full meal while waiting for a flight. Most cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the main terminal and offer dishes to suit every taste and budget.

In the public area (before security control), there are usually several establishments where you can spend time with those seeing you off. Here you can often find coffee shops offering pastries and sandwiches, as well as small fast-food restaurants. This is a convenient option if you have plenty of time before check-in.

After passing through security, in the "airside" zone, the selection is generally wider. Main food courts and restaurants are located here. Passengers can find well-known fast-food chains, ideal for a quick bite, as well as restaurants offering more substantial meals. Be sure to look out for places specialising in local Cantonese cuisine. Zhanjiang is famous for its seafood, so if time permits, it is worth trying dishes made from fresh fish or prawns. Chicken dishes prepared according to local recipes are also popular.

Regarding prices, as in most airports, they are slightly higher than in the city. However, options for different budgets can be found — from an economical coffee with a bun to a full lunch in a restaurant. Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the departure of the last aircraft. For travellers with special dietary needs, such as vegetarians, finding specialised menus might be challenging; however, in Chinese restaurants, one can almost always order vegetable and rice dishes by asking for them to be prepared without meat.

To ensure your journey through Zhanjiang Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of these useful tips. A thoughtful approach to details will help save time, stress, and money, making the start or end of your trip to China more comfortable.

Arrival Time: It is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance. Allow at least 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and about 3 hours for international ones. This gives you a sufficient buffer for check-in, baggage drop, and security control without rushing, especially during peak hours.

Check-in and Control: If possible, complete online check-in for your flight — this will save you time at the airport. Security checkpoints in Chinese airports operate very thoroughly. Be prepared to present your passport and boarding pass, and to remove all electronic devices and liquids from your hand luggage. Follow the staff's instructions to speed up the process.

Seat Selection: If the airline allows you to select a seat in advance, do so. Window seats are ideal for those who enjoy the views, while aisle seats provide more legroom and freedom of movement around the cabin during the flight.

Hand Luggage Rules: Pay special attention to carry-on regulations. China has strict restrictions on carrying liquids (only in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag), lighters, and matches. Power banks may only be carried in hand luggage, and they must have clear markings indicating their capacity. Devices without markings may be confiscated by security.

For Transfer Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and re-check it. This information can be obtained at the transfer desk. Ensure you have enough time between flights, especially if passport control is required.

Customs Control: When entering or leaving the country, be prepared to pass through customs. If you have goods subject to declaration (e.g., expensive equipment or large sums of cash), complete the appropriate declaration form. Familiarise yourself with the list of prohibited import and export items beforehand.

Saving Time and Money: To save money, bring an empty water bottle and fill it at drinking fountains after the security zone. Food prices at the airport are usually higher, so you might want to eat beforehand. Online booking of airport transfers is often more cost-effective than finding a taxi on arrival.

In Case of Delay: If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline's counter. Their representatives will provide current information and inform you of your rights (for example, provision of drinks, meals, or hotel accommodation). Having travel insurance will help compensate for potential expenses.