Key Highlights
- Chengdu is a major aviation hub in China, served by two airports: Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) and the newer Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU).
- Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) is now the primary hub for most international flights, while Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) mainly handles domestic routes.
- CTU is located closer to downtown Chengdu, about 10 miles away, making it a convenient option for domestic travelers.
- Both airports are major bases for Sichuan Airlines and Air China, connecting Chengdu to the world.
- You can easily travel between the two airports and the city center using the efficient Chengdu Metro system.
Introduction
Welcome to Chengdu, the vibrant capital of Sichuan province and your gateway to the heart of Panda Country! Whether you’re flying in for business or to see the giant pandas, understanding the city’s airport setup is key. Chengdu is one of the few cities in China with two major aviation hubs. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about flying into Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) and the new Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU), ensuring your journey is smooth from touchdown to takeoff.
Overview of Chengdu’s Airports
Chengdu’s position as a critical aviation hub for Southwestern China is supported by its dual-airport system. The city is served by both Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport and the more recently opened Tianfu International Airport. Together, they handled over 74 million passengers in 2023, making Chengdu’s airport system the third busiest in the nation.
These airports are crucial hubs for major carriers like Air China and Chengdu Airlines, offering a vast network of routes. While they both serve the city, they have distinct roles, with one focusing on domestic travel and the other on international connections. Let’s explore each airport in more detail.
Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU)
Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) holds a long history, having first opened in 1938. If you’re wondering which Chengdu airport is closer to the city center, CTU is your answer. Located just 16 kilometers (about 10 miles) southwest of downtown Chengdu, it offers quick access to the city. Since the opening of Tianfu Airport, Shuangliu International Airport has transitioned to primarily handling domestic flights, making it a bustling hub for travel within China.
The airport is a principal base for Air China and Sichuan Airlines. Getting to and from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is straightforward. The ground transportation network is excellent, featuring dedicated airport bus routes, taxis, and high-speed rail connections.
Perhaps the most convenient option is the Chengdu Metro Line 10, which has stations directly at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. This direct link to the city’s subway system makes your journey from the airport to downtown seamless and affordable.
Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU)
Opened in 2021, Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) is the city’s new, state-of-the-art international airport. Located about 51 kilometers (32 miles) southeast of the city, this massive hub was designed to handle the growing volume of global travelers. TFU now operates most of the international and cargo routes for Chengdu and is a key hub for carriers like Sichuan Airlines and the cargo giant SF Airlines.
So, what facilities are available for passengers at Chengdu Tianfu Airport? You’ll find a wide array of modern amenities, including duty-free shops, numerous restaurants and cafes, comfortable lounges, currency exchange services, and baggage storage. The airport is designed for comfort and convenience, with two terminals connected by an automated people mover.
The airport station is well-integrated with the city’s transport network. You can reach downtown via the Chengdu Metro Line 18, which offers an express service. With 24/7 bus services available, Chengdu Tianfu International Airport is always accessible for your travel needs.
Key Differences Between CTU and TFU
Choosing between Chengdu’s two airports depends entirely on your travel plans. The primary difference between Chengdu Shuangliu Airport (CTU) and Tianfu International Airport (TFU) lies in their function and location. CTU is much closer to downtown Chengdu and now serves as the main hub for domestic flights. In contrast, TFU is farther out but handles the bulk of international travel.
Both are well connected by the Chengdu Metro Line, but the travel time and cost will vary significantly. The table below breaks down the key distinctions to help you decide which airport better suits your itinerary.
| Feature | Chengdu Shuangliu Airport (CTU) | Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Mostly domestic flights | Mostly international and cargo flights |
| Distance from Downtown | Approx. 16 km (10 miles) | Approx. 51 km (32 miles) |
| Metro Connection | Chengdu Metro Line 10 & Line 19 | Chengdu Metro Line 18 & Line 19 |
| Year Opened | 1938 (as a civil airport in 1956) | 2021 |
Airlines and Destinations
Chengdu’s airports boast an impressive roster of airlines, connecting the region to destinations across the globe. Sichuan Airlines and Air China use both airports as major hubs, offering extensive networks. You’ll also find other major carriers like China Southern Airlines, Lucky Air, and China Eastern Airlines operating numerous routes.
The city’s aviation network includes a wide range of international services, with direct flights to Europe, North America (including the United States), and beyond. Additionally, Chengdu is a major center for air freight, with expanding cargo routes operated by companies like SF Airlines, which offers services such as SF Economy Express. The following sections will give you a closer look at the specific routes available.
Major International Routes from Chengdu
Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) is your gateway to the world, serving a growing list of global destinations. The airport has taken over most of the international services previously operated from Shuangliu, connecting Sichuan province directly to major cities in Europe, North America, and Asia. Whether you’re flying for leisure or business, you have plenty of options.
Some of the key intercontinental destinations served by TFU include direct flights to cities like Frankfurt, Milan, and Los Angeles. Regional connections are also strong, with frequent flights to hubs like Hong Kong and Singapore. In addition to passenger flights, the international airport handles significant cargo traffic, with services like SF Standard Express connecting Chengdu’s manufacturing sector globally.
To get the most accurate, up-to-the-minute details, where can you check real-time flight information for Chengdu airports? It’s always best to visit the official airport websites (sctfia.com for TFU and chengdu-airport.com for CTU) or use your airline’s mobile app.
Popular international destinations include:
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- London (LHR)
- Frankfurt (FRA)
- Hong Kong (HKG)
- Singapore (SIN)
Direct Flights to Asian Cities
Are there direct flights from Chengdu to major Asian cities? Absolutely! Chengdu serves as a fantastic hub for exploring the rest of Asia, with numerous direct flights connecting you to the continent’s most exciting destinations. From bustling capitals to relaxing beach getaways, you can easily find a flight to suit your travel style.
Airlines such as China Eastern Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, and Hainan Airlines operate frequent services to various Asian cities. Whether you’re planning a trip to Southeast Asia, East Asia, or South Asia, Chengdu’s airports provide convenient and efficient connections. This makes it easy to plan a multi-destination trip starting from the heart of Sichuan.
You can fly non-stop from Chengdu to a variety of popular spots. Exploring Asia has never been easier with these direct connections:
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Seoul, South Korea
- Tokyo, Japan
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Hanoi, Vietnam
Panda Country Travel Tips
No trip to Chengdu is complete without experiencing its most famous residents: the giant pandas! The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is one of the city’s must-see attractions and a global center for panda conservation. Planning your visit here is a top priority for most travelers.
Beyond the pandas, the surrounding region is rich with culture and history. Thanks to an excellent transportation network, including the Leshan intercity railway, accessing these sites is simple. You can easily catch trains from major hubs like Chengdu East Railway Station or Chengdu South Railway Station to explore other incredible landmarks. Let’s look at how to plan these unforgettable excursions.
Visiting the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
A visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a truly magical experience. This world-renowned conservation center allows you to see giant pandas, including adorable cubs, in a beautiful, naturalistic habitat. It’s located conveniently within the city, making it an easy half-day trip.
Getting to the base from your hotel or the international airport is simple. You can take a taxi, use a ride-hailing app, or navigate the city’s public bus routes, which offer direct connections to the park entrance. To make the most of your visit, a few travel tips can go a long way.
Here’s how to have the best experience:
- Go Early: Pandas are most active in the morning during their feeding time, typically between 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM.
- Book Tickets Online: Purchase your tickets in advance to avoid long lines at the entrance.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The base is quite large, so be prepared for a good amount of walking.
- Visit the Nursery: Don’t miss the nursery and kindergarten areas, where you might get to see the youngest panda cubs.
Other Must-See Attractions Near Chengdu
While pandas may be the main draw, Chengdu is surrounded by other must-see attractions that showcase China’s profound history and natural beauty. One of the most popular day trips is to see the Leshan Giant Buddha, the world’s largest stone Buddha statue, carved into the side of a cliff.
Reaching these incredible sites is surprisingly easy. The high-speed Leshan intercity railway departs frequently from Chengdu East Railway Station and Chengdu South Railway Station, getting you to Leshan in about an hour. From the Chengdu East hub, you can also connect to trains heading toward Mount Emei, another UNESCO World Heritage site.
Consider adding these amazing destinations to your itinerary:
- Leshan Giant Buddha: A breathtaking 71-meter-tall statue dating back to the 8th century.
- Mount Emei (Emeishan): One of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains of China, offering stunning hikes and ancient temples.
- Dujiangyan Irrigation System: An ancient and still-functioning engineering marvel from the 3rd century BC.
- Mount Qingcheng: A serene Taoist mountain known for its lush scenery and historic temples.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Chengdu airport is best for international flights?
For international flights, Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) is the best choice. Since its opening, the Tianfu Airport has taken over the majority of international routes for airlines like Air China and Sichuan Airlines. In contrast, Shuangliu International Airport now primarily focuses on domestic travel within China.
How do I travel between CTU and TFU?
The most efficient ground transportation option to travel between Chengdu Shuangliu Airport (CTU) and Tianfu International Airport (TFU) is the Chengdu Metro. You can take Metro Line 19, which provides a direct connection between the two airports. Alternatively, dedicated airport bus routes are also available for transfers.
Can I leave the airport during a layover in Chengdu?
Yes, you may be able to leave the international airport during a layover. Chengdu offers a 144-hour visa-free transit policy for eligible passport holders arriving at either Chengdu Shuangliu or Chengdu Tianfu. This allows you to exit the airport and explore the city before your connecting flight.