Key Highlights
- Beijing has two major international airports: the long-established Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and the modern Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX).
- Your choice of airport often depends on your airline, as PEK is a hub for Air China and Star Alliance, while PKX serves China Southern, China Eastern, and SkyTeam Alliance.
- Both airports handle enormous passenger traffic and offer extensive routes for domestic and international flights.
- Transportation options are plentiful, including the Airport Express trains that connect both hubs to downtown Beijing efficiently.
- PEK is located northeast of the city, while the newer PKX is situated to the south, which can influence your travel time to your final destination.
Introduction
Welcome to Beijing! Navigating a new city starts with its airports, and Beijing offers two world-class gateways: Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX). Whether you’re arriving for business or leisure, understanding these hubs is key to a smooth journey. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from telling the airports apart to finding the best way to reach the city, like using the convenient Airport Express Train. Let’s get your trip started on the right foot.
Overview of Beijing’s Two Major Airports
Beijing is served by two incredible aviation hubs, each with its own unique character. The Capital International Airport (PEK) has been the city’s primary gateway for decades and has grown to become one of the world’s busiest airports, handling a massive volume of international flights. It stands as a testament to Beijing’s rapid development over the years.
In contrast, Beijing Daxing (PKX) is the futuristic newcomer, opened in 2019 to alleviate pressure on PEK. Known for its stunning starfish-shaped design, PKX offers a state-of-the-art travel experience. The main differences lie in their location, design, and the airline alliances they primarily serve.
Introduction to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
As one of the world’s most significant aviation hubs, Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) has a rich history. Opened in 1958, it has expanded multiple times to accommodate growing demand, most notably with the addition of the massive Terminal 3 for the 2008 Summer Olympics. Located 32 kilometers northeast of downtown Beijing, the Capital Airport remains a critical hub for international travel.
The airport consists of three terminals. Terminal 2 serves SkyTeam members and Hainan Airlines, while the impressive Terminal 3 is the main base for Air China and its Star Alliance partners. A free shuttle bus connects the terminals, ensuring you can easily make your way to the correct terminal building.
From your flight’s arrival to the baggage claim area, PEK is designed to handle millions of passengers. Its vast size and comprehensive facilities reflect its status as a major global crossroads. Getting to and from PEK is straightforward, with multiple transportation links connecting it to the heart of the city.
Introduction to Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX)
Say hello to the future of air travel at Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX). This architectural marvel, nicknamed “the starfish,” opened in 2019 and features the world’s second-largest single-building terminal. Designed by the late Zaha Hadid, the new Daxing Airport provides a seamless and visually stunning experience for travelers. Its master plan was developed by Netherlands Airport Consultants (NACO) with a focus on efficiency and passenger convenience.
Located 46 kilometers south of Tiananmen Square, Daxing Airport serves Beijing as well as the neighboring Hebei and Tianjin regions. It was built to handle immense passenger traffic, with a design that minimizes walking distances from security to the gates. The airport is a major hub for airlines in the SkyTeam alliance and is also home to carriers like China United Airlines.
PKX is more than just an airport; it’s an integrated transportation hub. You have a wide array of options to get into the city, including a high-speed intercity rail and a dedicated subway line, making your journey from the airport quick and easy.
Key Differences Between PEK and PKX
When you fly into Beijing, your experience can vary quite a bit depending on whether you land at Beijing Capital International Airport or Beijing Daxing International Airport. The most obvious difference is their age and design; PEK is a more traditional airport with multiple terminals, while PKX boasts a single, hyper-modern terminal building.
Their locations are also on opposite sides of the city, which affects access via the Airport Expressway and other routes. Furthermore, they host different airline alliances, a key factor for many international travelers. Let’s look closer at how they compare in terms of access and design.
Location and Access Comparison
Your travel time to downtown Beijing depends heavily on your arrival airport. PEK is located 32 km northeast of the city center, making it a bit closer to central and eastern districts. You can reach it via the Airport Expressway, which connects directly to the 3rd Ring Road.
PKX, on the other hand, is situated 46 km south of Tiananmen Square. While it is physically farther away, it benefits from newer, high-speed connections. The Daxing Airport Express train is designed for speed, connecting you to the subway network in just over 20 minutes. Below is a quick comparison of their locations and primary express rail links.
| Feature | Beijing Capital (PEK) | Beijing Daxing (PKX) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | 32 km Northeast of Downtown | 46 km South of Downtown |
| Primary Rail Link | Airport Express Train | Daxing Airport Express |
| Rail Travel Time | Approx. 16-20 mins to city transfer points | Approx. 22 mins to city transfer points |
| Serves | Northern and Eastern Beijing | Southern Beijing and Hebei Province |
Passenger Capacity and Terminal Design
The design philosophy of the two airports is fundamentally different. PEK, once the world’s second-busiest airport, grew organically over decades. It features three separate terminals: T1, T2, and the enormous T3, which was the largest terminal building in the world when it opened. This multi-terminal layout requires shuttle buses for transfers between some flights.
By contrast, PKX was designed from the ground up to be efficient. Its single, massive “starfish” terminal allows passengers to reach any gate from the central security checkpoint in a short walk. This innovative design streamlines the flow of passenger traffic and simplifies the entire airport experience.
Both airports are managed under the umbrella of China’s civil aviation authority and are built to handle staggering numbers of travelers. However, PKX’s modern design aims to set a new standard for passenger convenience, while PEK’s sprawling layout is a result of its long history and gradual expansion.
Choosing the Right Airport for Your Trip
So, which airport is right for you? The choice between Beijing Capital and Beijing Daxing International Airport often comes down to three key factors: your airline, your final destination within Beijing, and your travel priorities. If you value proximity to downtown Beijing, your decision might differ from someone who prioritizes a specific airline alliance.
Both airports offer excellent services and fast connections like the Airport Express lines. To help you decide, it’s useful to consider which airlines fly where and how close each airport is to the places you plan to visit. Let’s explore these factors in more detail.
Factors to Consider for International Travelers
For international travelers, the most significant factor is often airline alliances. The two airports serve as hubs for different global networks, which can affect your ticketing, layovers, and loyalty program benefits for international flights.
PEK is the primary hub for Star Alliance members in Beijing. If you’re flying with airlines like Air China, United Airlines, or Lufthansa, you will almost certainly use PEK. It also serves some Oneworld members. In contrast, PKX is the main base for the SkyTeam alliance, including China Eastern and China Southern Airlines.
Here are the key points to consider:
- PEK (Capital): Primarily serves Air China and its Star Alliance partners.
- PKX (Daxing): Primarily serves China Southern, China Eastern, and their SkyTeam partners.
- Check your airline’s terminal building before booking, as this will determine your airport.
- If you have a connecting flight, ensure you know whether you need to transfer between airports, as it can be time-consuming.
Airport Proximity to Beijing Landmarks and Districts
Where you’re staying in Beijing can make one airport more convenient than the other. Your travel time from the airport to your hotel or first sightseeing stop is an important consideration after a long flight.
Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) is located in the northeast and offers better access to the city’s eastern and northern districts. This includes the Central Business District (CBD), the Sanlitun embassy and nightlife area, and the Olympic Green. If your trip is focused on these areas, PEK is likely your best bet.
PKX is in the south, making it a better choice if you’re staying in the southern parts of the city or need to travel onward to the Xiong’an New Area or cities in Hebei province. While farther from the traditional city center, its high-speed transport links can still get you to downtown Beijing quickly.
- Choose PEK for: Proximity to the CBD, Sanlitun, Wangjing, and the Olympic Park.
- Choose PKX for: Access to southern Beijing districts and connecting travel to Tianjin or Hebei.
- For central landmarks like the Forbidden City: Both airports have efficient transport, but PEK is geographically a little closer.
Airlines, Routes, and Flight Information
Your flight options will be split between Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport. Each airport serves as a major hub for different domestic and international airlines, including flag carrier Air China and other giants like China Eastern Airlines and Southern Airlines.
Whether you’re flying with United Airlines on a transatlantic route or taking short-haul international flights within Asia, your airline will determine your gateway. Let’s break down which major airlines are based at each airport and the destinations they serve.
Major Airline Hubs at PEK and PKX
The division of airlines between PEK and PKX is largely based on global alliances. This separation was strategically planned to balance air traffic and streamline operations for passengers.
Beijing’s Capital Airport (PEK) remains the primary base for China’s flag carrier, Air China, and its Star Alliance partners. It is also a major hub for Hainan Airlines and its subsidiary, Beijing Capital Airlines. If you are flying with these carriers, you will be using PEK.
On the other side, Beijing Daxing (PKX) is the new home for the SkyTeam alliance in Beijing. This includes two of China’s largest carriers, China Eastern Airlines and China Southern Airlines.
- Hubs at PEK (Capital Airport):
- Air China (Star Alliance)
- Hainan Airlines
- Hubs at PKX (Daxing Airport):
- China Southern Airlines (SkyTeam)
- China Eastern Airlines (SkyTeam)
- China United Airlines
Popular International and Domestic Destinations
From Beijing, you can fly almost anywhere in the world. Both airports offer an extensive network of international flights and domestic flights, connecting the capital to global financial hubs, popular tourist spots, and cities across China.
From Beijing Capital (PEK), Air China and its partners fly to numerous destinations in North America, Europe, and Asia. You can easily find flights to cities like Los Angeles, Frankfurt, London, and Tokyo. Domestically, PEK offers high-frequency routes to Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. This Beijing international airport has long been the primary gateway for global travel.
Beijing Daxing (PKX) is rapidly expanding its route map. China Southern and China Eastern operate flights to major hubs like Amsterdam, Paris, and Seoul, as well as popular destinations across Southeast Asia. Flights to Hong Kong and Macau are also available from both airports.
- Popular Routes from PEK: New York, San Francisco, Paris, Munich, Hong Kong, Sydney.
- Popular Routes from PKX: Amsterdam, Seoul, major domestic cities like Shenzhen and Kunming.
Ground Transportation at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
Getting from Beijing Capital International Airport to the city center is convenient, with several reliable options available. The most popular choice for speed and efficiency is the Airport Express train, but airport buses and taxis are also readily available.
Your best option will depend on your budget, luggage, and final destination. Whether you choose the train, a shuttle bus, or a taxi via the Airport Expressway, you can expect a straightforward journey into the heart of Beijing. Here’s a closer look at your choices.
Airport Express Train and Subway Options
For a fast and traffic-free journey, the Airport Express Train is your best bet. This dedicated rail line connects Terminals 2 and 3 of the Capital International Airport directly with the city’s subway system, making it incredibly easy to get to downtown Beijing.
The train runs from the airport to two major transfer stations in the city: Sanyuanqiao (on Line 10) and Dongzhimen (on Lines 2 and 13). From there, you can connect to the rest of the vast Beijing subway network to reach your final destination, including major hubs like the Beijing Railway Station.
The entire journey on the Airport Express Train takes only about 16-20 minutes, offering a predictable and comfortable ride away from road congestion.
- Route: T3 → T2 → Sanyuanqiao → Dongzhimen.
- Travel Time: Approx. 16-20 minutes.
- Frequency: Trains run every 10-15 minutes.
- Benefit: Avoids city traffic and offers easy subway transfers.
Airport Buses, Taxis, and Ride-Hailing Services
If you prefer a direct-to-door service or are traveling with a lot of luggage, buses and taxis are excellent alternatives. Beijing Capital offers an extensive network of airport shuttle bus routes that serve major points throughout the city. These buses are an affordable option, with routes covering areas like Xidan, Zhongguancun, and major train stations.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available 24/7 from designated ranks outside each terminal. The journey to the city center typically takes 45-60 minutes via the Airport Expressway, depending on traffic. Taxis are metered, providing a transparent and reliable way to get to your hotel.
Be sure to use the official taxi queue to avoid unauthorized drivers. Ride-hailing apps are also popular in Beijing, but you will need to coordinate your pickup location within the airport’s designated areas.
- Airport Buses: 18 routes to various city districts.
- Intercity Buses: Connect to nearby cities like Tianjin and Qinhuangdao.
- Taxis: Available at official taxi stands; fares are metered.
- Ride-Hailing: Use popular apps and meet your driver at the specified pickup point.
Transportation at Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX)
Beijing Daxing was designed with connectivity in mind, featuring a groundbreaking ground transportation center located directly beneath the terminal. This integrated hub makes switching between your flight and onward travel incredibly simple.
From the high-speed Daxing Airport Express to intercity rail lines, buses, and taxis, you have a wealth of choices for getting from the Daxing Airport to your destination. Let’s explore the efficient and modern transport options available at Beijing Daxing.
Intercity Rail, Subway, and Buses
Daxing Airport offers some of the fastest rail connections of any airport in the world. The Daxing Airport Express is a dedicated subway line that whisks passengers to the Caoqiao station on the city’s Line 10 in just 22 minutes. This makes it a fantastic option for reaching central and southern Beijing.
For longer journeys, the Beijing-Xiong’an intercity rail provides high-speed service from Daxing Airport to Beijing West Railway Station, a major hub for high-speed trains to other Chinese cities. This is a great choice if you are connecting to another city by rail.
Additionally, multiple airport bus lines connect the airport to various parts of Beijing and neighboring cities. While slower than the train, they offer a cost-effective way to travel and may provide a more direct route to your destination.
- Daxing Airport Express: 22-minute ride to Caoqiao Station (Line 10).
- Intercity Rail: Connects to Beijing West Railway Station.
- Airport Buses: Routes to various locations in Beijing.
- Intercity Coaches: Service to nearby cities like Tianjin and Langfang.
Parking, Taxis, and Private Transfers
If you prefer the convenience of a car, Beijing Daxing provides ample options. The airport has several large parking facilities, including short-term lots (P1 and P2) located near the terminal and a long-term lot (P3) for extended stays. The parking areas even feature high-tech services like automated robotic parking.
Official taxi stands are located just outside the arrivals hall. A taxi ride from Daxing Airport to the city center takes approximately 60-90 minutes, depending on your destination and traffic conditions. Always use the designated queue to ensure you get a licensed, metered taxi.
For a more premium experience, you can pre-book private transfers. This allows you to have a driver waiting for you upon arrival, offering a hassle-free, door-to-door service. Car rentals are also available at the airport for those who prefer to drive themselves.
- Parking: Short-term and long-term lots are available.
- Taxis: Official, metered taxis are available 24/7.
- Private Transfers: Pre-book for a seamless, comfortable journey.
- Car Rentals: Several companies operate at the airport.
Conclusion
Navigating Beijing’s airports can be an overwhelming experience, but with the right information, you can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you choose Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) or the newer Daxing International Airport (PKX), understanding their features, transportation options, and proximity to key landmarks will help you maximize your travel experience. Always keep in mind the airline hubs and available routes when planning your trip. As you prepare for your next international adventure, remember that being informed is the key to a hassle-free travel experience. For personalized assistance in planning your travel itinerary, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team for a free consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there direct public transport links between Beijing’s two main airports?
Currently, there is no direct shuttle bus or train linking Beijing Capital Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport. To travel between them using public transport, you would need to take the Airport Express from one airport into the city and transfer to another subway line to reach the other airport’s express train.
What facilities and traveler services are available for internationals at Beijing airports?
Both Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport offer extensive facilities for international flights. These include currency exchange, duty-free shops, a wide variety of restaurants, and airline lounges for alliances like Star Alliance. Services such as luggage wrapping, baggage claim assistance, and free Wi-Fi are also readily available.
How do I check real-time arrivals, departures, and flight status at PEK or PKX?
The best way to check your flight status for international flights is by visiting the official airport websites: www.bcia.com.cn for Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and www.bdia.com.cn for Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX). You can also check your airline’s mobile app or view the large flight information screens inside the terminal building.