Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport

Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO) is not merely the air gateway to Henan Province, but a key transport and logistics hub in the central part of China. Its modern infrastructure and strategic location make it a starting point for millions of travellers exploring both the ancient treasures of the region and its dynamically developing metropolises. The airport is renowned for its efficiency and constantly growing passenger traffic, being one of the busiest in the country. It plays a vital role not only in passenger transport but also in cargo operations, highlighting its economic significance for all of China.

For the convenience of travellers, essential information about the airport is presented below in a compact format.

Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport is distinguished by a high level of comfort and well-thought-out logistics. It is connected to the city and neighbouring localities via an integrated transport centre, from where one can easily transfer to the metro, high-speed train, bus, or taxi. Passengers have access to modern amenities, including various restaurants, Duty Free shops, rest areas, and free Wi-Fi. One of the unique architectural features is the 93.5-metre high control tower, designed in the shape of an ancient bone flute—an artefact found in Henan Province. For international tourists, a special service centre is provided to assist with installing and setting up payment applications popular in China, which significantly simplifies your stay in the country.

For current information regarding flights, services, and airport regulations at Zhengzhou Xinzheng (CGO), please use the following contact details:

• Official Website: www.zzairport.com. The site provides information on flight schedules, passenger services, and terminal maps.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +86 371 96666. This is the main number for obtaining information about airport operations.
• Airport Address: Airport Group, Zhengzhou, Henan, 451161, China.
• Email: The airport does not provide a public email address for general inquiries. It is recommended to use the telephone or official social media accounts for communication.
• Social Media: For news and updates, you can follow the airport's official accounts on WeChat and Weibo platforms.
• Lost & Found: In case of lost luggage, you should first contact your airline's representative office. You may also contact the airport's baggage tracing service via the phone number listed on the official website.
• Customer Support Contacts: For all general questions related to your stay at the airport, please contact the 24-hour inquiry service at +86 371 96666.

There are several ways to get to Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO) from the city centre of Zhengzhou, each offering its own advantages. The airport is located approximately 37 kilometres southeast of the centre, and the journey usually takes from 40 minutes to an hour depending on the chosen transport and traffic conditions.

Public Transport is the most popular and economical option. To travel to the airport, you can use:

• Metro: The Chengjiao Line (an extension of the purple Line 2) directly connects the city centre with Terminal 2 of the airport. This is a reliable and budget-friendly way to avoid traffic jams. The trip from central stations takes about 40-50 minutes, and the ticket cost is only a few yuan.
• Intercity Railway: A high-speed train runs between Zhengzhou East Railway Station and the airport. This is the fastest method, with the journey taking only about 20 minutes. It is ideal for those arriving in the city by high-speed train.
• Shuttle Buses: An extensive network of buses connects the airport with key points in the city, including major hotels, bus terminals, and railway stations. This is a convenient option if you need to reach an area not served by the metro. The fare is usually around 20 yuan.

Taxis and Transfers offer the comfort and convenience of door-to-door travel. A taxi ride from the city centre will cost approximately 100-120 yuan and take about 40-60 minutes, excluding traffic. It is recommended to use official taxis and insist on using the meter. An even more convenient alternative is using ride-hailing apps such as DiDi, where the cost is known in advance.

For those who prefer complete freedom of movement, car rental is available. Counters for international and local rental companies operate at the airport. However, it is worth remembering that foreign tourists need a Chinese driving licence to drive in China. If you are arriving in your own or a rented vehicle, the airport provides both short-term and long-term parking with convenient access to the terminals.

If your travel itinerary covers neighbouring cities, it is worth considering other airports in the region. The nearest air hubs, which can be convenient alternatives for travelling around Henan Province, are located in Luoyang and Anyang.

Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport (CGO) is a large and modern aviation hub with a structure designed for passenger convenience. Major passenger operations are concentrated in one large terminal, which significantly simplifies navigation.

Main Structure and Terminals:

Currently, the airport consists of two terminals, but practically all passenger flights, both domestic and international, are serviced in Terminal 2 (T2). This is a modern and vast building opened in 2015. Terminal 1 (T1) is an older building and is currently hardly used for regular passenger transport, as all airlines have moved their operations to T2. Therefore, your flight will most likely be handled in Terminal 2.

Layout and Navigation in Terminal 2:

Terminal 2 has an X-shape, allowing for efficient distribution of passenger flows and reduced travel time to boarding gates. The terminal structure is classic for major international airports:

• Departure Zone: Located on the upper floors. Here you will find check-in counters (separate zones for domestic and international flights), security checkpoints, and passport control. After completing formalities, passengers enter a spacious "airside area" with shops, restaurants, and boarding gates.
• Arrival Zone: Located on the lower floors. Passengers arrive here after disembarking, pass through passport control (for international flights), collect baggage, and clear customs.

Connections and Transport Hub:

One of the key features of Xinzheng Airport is the integrated Ground Transportation Centre (GTC), which is directly connected to Terminal 2. This is a multi-level complex combining a high-speed train station, a metro station, bus stops, and parking. Thanks to the GTC, passengers can easily reach the city or other regions of China without going outside. The transition between T2 and the GTC is via covered walkways.

Processing Times and Recommendations:

Despite the terminal's size, navigation is intuitive thanks to clear signage in Chinese and English. It is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance:

• For international flights — 3-4 hours before departure.
• For domestic flights — 2-2.5 hours before departure.

During peak hours, queues for check-in and security may be longer. Always check information on departure boards and follow the signs to your boarding gate. If you have questions, you can always approach the information desk.

The history of Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport (CGO) is a vivid example of the rapid development of aviation infrastructure in China. The airport was officially opened on 28 August 1997, replacing the old Dongjiao Airport, which could no longer cope with the growing needs of the region. From the very beginning, the new airport was designed with significant future capacity in mind, to serve not only passengers but also substantial cargo flows in the city of Zhengzhou and the entire Henan Province.

A key stage in the airport's development was the launch of a massive expansion project. In 2015, the modern Terminal 2 was commissioned, increasing capacity several times over. Simultaneously, a second runway was built, certified to accommodate the world's largest aircraft, such as the Airbus A380. These innovations transformed Xinzheng from a regional node into a fully-fledged international hub.

One of the most significant pages in the airport's history has been its emergence as one of the leading cargo hubs in the world. Thanks to its strategic location in the centre of the country and the creation of a special economic zone, CGO has attracted major global logistics companies. The airport regularly breaks records for cargo volume handled, playing a key role in the transportation of fresh produce, electronics, and e-commerce goods worldwide.

An interesting fact: Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport is often referred to as the "Air Silk Road" of the 21st century. It has become a vital link in global supply chains for many technology giants. Constant modernisation, including the implementation of advanced sorting and management technologies, allows the airport to effectively handle colossal transport volumes and maintain its status as one of Asia's fastest-growing and modern aviation hubs.

Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO) offers a wide range of services to make your wait for a flight as comfortable and productive as possible. Everything necessary is provided for passengers—from various dining spots to specialised services.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Shops: Numerous establishments where you can have a snack or a full meal are located within the airport terminals. You will find restaurants serving local and international cuisine, as well as popular coffee chains. For shopping enthusiasts, stores including Duty Free are open, where you can purchase souvenirs, perfumes, electronics, and other goods.

Lounges and VIP Service: For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, business lounges and VIP zones are available. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, and access business services.

Wi-Fi and Charging Stations: Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected or work. Numerous charging stations for mobile devices are conveniently located in waiting areas and at boarding gates.

Financial Services: Passengers can use the services of bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points located in both terminals. This allows you to easily resolve all financial matters before or after your flight.

Medical Assistance: A medical centre operates around the clock at the airport, where qualified personnel are ready to provide first aid if necessary.

Services for Passengers with Children: Special mother and child rooms are equipped for travellers with small children. Some waiting zones feature play areas so that young passengers do not get bored.

Assistance for Passengers with Reduced Mobility: The airport is fully equipped for the comfortable movement of passengers with reduced mobility. Wheelchairs, ramps, lifts, and specially equipped restrooms are provided. An escort service can also be requested.

Hotels and Business Centres: Hotels offering convenient accommodation for transit passengers are located directly on the airport grounds and in the immediate vicinity. For business travellers, conference rooms and business centres equipped with everything necessary for meetings and negotiations are available.

At Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO), travellers will find plenty of options for a snack or a full lunch, catering to different tastes and budgets. Most establishments are concentrated in Terminal 2, which handles the majority of domestic and international flights.

Landside Zone (Before Security)

The public area before check-in and security typically offers the widest selection of venues. Here you will find fast-food restaurants (e.g., KFC, McDonald's) as well as coffee shops (Starbucks, Costa Coffee) where you can quietly enjoy coffee and dessert. Prices in this zone are usually slightly lower than in the secure area. This is an ideal place to eat if you are seeing someone off or have arrived at the airport well in advance.

Airside Zone (After Security)

In the departure area after passport and customs control, there are also quite a few cafes and restaurants. Here you can find establishments offering Chinese and Asian cuisine, as well as spots with sandwiches, salads, and pastries for a quick bite before boarding. The operating hours of most cafes and restaurants are tied to the flight schedule, but some 24-hour shops and vending machines are available at any time.

What to Try from Local Cuisine?

Being in Zhengzhou, the capital of Henan Province, it is worth paying attention to local culinary hits. In some airport restaurants, you can try the famous "Huimian" (Huimian) noodle soup—a hearty dish made of lamb, noodles, and vegetables. Also, look for places serving traditional Chinese dumplings and noodles in broth—this is an excellent option for a filling and tasty lunch.

Special Dietary Preferences

Finding certified Halal or gluten-free dishes can be challenging, so it is best to check the ingredients with the staff. For vegetarians, most Chinese restaurants will have dishes based on vegetables, tofu, and rice. International coffee shops and fast-food chains also offer vegetarian sandwiches, salads, and snacks.

Recommendations:

• For a quick snack: Look for chain coffee shops, sandwich spots, or convenience stores where you can buy yoghurt, fruit, snacks, and drinks.
• For a full meal: Choose one of the Chinese restaurants in the landside or airside zone to leisurely enjoy local dishes before your flight.

The price range varies from budget options in food courts and fast-food chains to more expensive offers in full-service restaurants. On average, you can expect standard prices for major airports.

To ensure your journey through Xinzheng Airport in Zhengzhou goes as smoothly as possible, please follow our tips. We recommend arriving at the airport in advance: 2-3 hours before domestic flights and 3-4 hours before international ones. This will give you enough time for all procedures, especially during peak hours. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline provides this option. This will allow you to head straight to the baggage drop counter or, if travelling light, to the security checkpoint.

Passing through security checks at airports in China can be quite thorough. Prepare in advance: keep your passport and boarding pass handy. All electronics, including laptops, tablets, and power banks, must be removed from your carry-on luggage. Pay special attention to power banks: the capacity marking must be clearly visible on them, and they are permitted only in carry-on luggage. Liquids can be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Lighters, matches, and other flammable items are strictly prohibited.

If you have a layover in Zhengzhou, check with your airline whether you need to collect your luggage or if it will be automatically transferred to the next flight. To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle—after security, you can fill it at drinking fountains. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be high, so having a light snack with you won't hurt. When choosing a seat on the plane, standard rules apply here too: a window seat for beautiful views, an aisle seat for freedom of movement.

When entering or leaving the country, be prepared to fill out a customs declaration if you are carrying goods subject to declaration or large amounts of cash. If your flight is delayed, the first thing to do is contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Stay calm and use this time to charge your gadgets or explore the shops and cafes in the terminal.