Key Highlights
Planning a trip to Guangdong Province? Here’s a quick look at what you need to know about the region’s key airport.
- Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport (SWA) is the main airport serving the city of Shantou and its neighboring areas, Chaozhou and Jieyang.
- It replaced the old Shantou Waisha Airport for all commercial flights in December 2011.
- The airport is a hub for major carriers like China Southern Airlines, offering numerous domestic flights.
- You can find several international flights to destinations including Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Singapore.
- This modern international airport features an expanded terminal with a wide range of amenities for travelers.
Overview of Shantou’s Main Airport
If you’re flying into the Chaoshan region, your destination will be the Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport (IATA: SWA). This modern facility serves as the primary air gateway for the cities of Shantou, Jieyang, and Chaozhou, making it a crucial hub for travelers visiting this part of Guangdong province. It effectively replaced the former Shantou Waisha Airport for all civilian air traffic upon its opening.
This international airport is strategically positioned to be accessible from all three major cities. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure to the city of Shantou, understanding this airport is your first step to a smooth journey. In the following sections, we will cover its official name, history, and location in more detail.
Official Name and Location
The main airport serving the area is officially named Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport. You might also hear it referred to as Chaoshan Airport. Its IATA code is SWA, a carryover from the previous Shantou Waisha Airport. This can sometimes cause confusion, but rest assured, SWA is the correct code for the current international airport.
Strategically located, the airport isn’t within Shantou’s city limits but rather in Jiedong District, Jieyang. The site was specifically chosen for its central position relative to the three cities it serves. It is located approximately 28.5 kilometers (about 17.7 miles) from the city of Shantou, 22 kilometers from Jieyang, and 24 kilometers from Chaozhou.
This central location makes the Jieyang Chaoshan Airport a convenient entry point for the entire region. Its thoughtful placement ensures that travelers can reach their final destination in any of the three cities with relative ease, connecting this vibrant area to the rest of China and the world.
Historical Significance and Transition from Waisha Airport
Before the current facility existed, the city of Shantou was served by the Shantou Waisha Airport. This older airport was a dual-use facility, handling both military and civilian flights. However, with growing demand and the need for a more modern hub, plans were made for a new, dedicated commercial airport.
Construction on the new Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport began in June 2009. On December 15, 2011, it officially opened its doors to the public. On that same day, all commercial and civil aviation operations were transferred from the Shantou Waisha Airport, marking a significant transition in the region’s air travel infrastructure.
So, is the old airport still in use? Yes, but not for you as a traveler. The Shantou Waisha Airport now operates exclusively as a military air base and no longer serves any commercial flights. All your travel to or from the city of Shantou will be through the modern Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport.
Terminal Layout and Facilities
Navigating Jieyang Chaoshan Airport is a straightforward experience, thanks to its modern design and passenger-focused layout. The airport underwent a significant expansion, completed in December 2022, which doubled its terminal area. This upgrade increased the airport’s capacity to handle up to 14.5 million passengers annually, ensuring a comfortable flow even during peak times.
This international airport is equipped with a range of facilities and amenities designed to make your journey pleasant. From efficient check-in processes to comfortable waiting areas, you’ll find everything you need. Let’s explore the terminal’s structure and the specific services available to travelers.
Terminal Structure and Navigation
The terminal at Jieyang Chaoshan Airport is designed for easy navigation. After a recent expansion, the building now covers an area of 113,000 square meters and features 26 jetways. Of these, 22 are designated for domestic flights, two for international services, and two are dual-use, allowing for flexible operations.
Finding your way around is simple. The airport has 39 check-in counters to streamline the process. Counters 1-16 are typically for airlines like Air China and China Eastern Airlines, while counters 17-28 are dedicated to China Southern Airlines. For international travel, you will head to counters 29-39. If you prefer to speed things up, there are also 16 self-service check-in kiosks available for passenger use.
Once you are past check-in, the terminal offers plenty of seating, with thousands of rest seats available throughout the building and around 150 at each boarding gate. This ensures you can relax comfortably while waiting for your flight from this international airport.
Amenities Available for Travelers
Chaoshan International Airport offers a variety of amenities to enhance your travel experience. Whether you need to grab a bite, do some last-minute shopping, or handle financial matters, the terminal is well-equipped to meet your needs before you fly to or from the city of Shantou.
You will find several restaurants and shops located throughout the building. Restaurants are available in the arrival hall and both the domestic and international departure halls. For banking, a 24-hour Bank of China self-service station is located in the domestic departure hall on the third floor, offering services like currency exchange and withdrawals.
Here are some of the key amenities you can find:
- Duty-Free Shops: Located in both the international arrival and waiting halls.
- VIP Lounges: Three VIP rooms are available, offering services like Wi-Fi, massage chairs, and special check-in.
- Medical Services: A first-aid station is open 24/7 for medical emergencies and consultations.
- Restrooms: The terminal includes 32 restrooms, with 10 accessible facilities for individuals with disabilities.
Airlines Operating at Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport
Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport is served by a wide array of airlines, connecting the region to cities across China and beyond. As a hub for China Southern Airlines, you will find that Southern Airlines offers an extensive network of both domestic and international flights. Other major Chinese carriers, including Air China and China Eastern Airlines, also maintain a strong presence here.
Whether you are planning domestic travel within China or looking for international flights, Chaoshan Airport provides plenty of options. The following sections will give you a closer look at the specific domestic and international routes available.
Domestic Airlines and Destinations
The airport hosts numerous domestic flights connecting the Chaoshan region to major hubs across the country. Airlines like China Southern Airlines, Air China, and China Eastern Airlines operate frequent services to popular destinations. Whether you’re traveling for business to Shanghai or for leisure to Chengdu, you’ll find a convenient flight.
These carriers link the city of Shantou with over 20 cities in China. You can easily book domestic flights to Beijing, Guangzhou, Xi’an, Hangzhou, and Kunming, among others. This robust network makes Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport a vital connection point for travelers exploring mainland China.
Here is a brief look at some of the major domestic airlines and a few of their key destinations:
| Airline | Popular Domestic Destinations |
|---|---|
| Air China | Beijing-Capital, Chengdu-Tianfu, Wuhan |
| China Eastern Airlines | Shanghai-Hongqiao, Shanghai-Pudong, Nanjing, Kunming |
| China Southern Airlines | Beijing-Daxing, Guangzhou, Changsha, Chongqing, Wuhan |
| Spring Airlines | Shanghai-Hongqiao, Hangzhou, Harbin, Xi’an |
International Airlines and Popular Routes
Beyond its domestic network, Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport also offers a growing number of international flights. These routes connect the region directly to key cities in Asia, making international travel more convenient. China Southern is a major operator on these routes, providing reliable direct flights.
Popular international destinations include major business and leisure hubs. You can fly directly to cities that are popular with both tourists and business travelers alike. The airport officially gained international status in 2014, and since then, its global connectivity has continued to expand, supporting the region’s economic and cultural ties.
Some of the most popular international routes from this international airport include:
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Singapore
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Hong Kong
Ground Transportation Options
Once you land at Chaoshan International Airport, you have several reliable ground transportation options to get you to your final destination. Whether you are heading to the city of Shantou, Jieyang, or Chaozhou, the airport offers convenient and accessible airport transfers. The main choices include airport express buses, taxis, and private transfers.
Planning your journey from the airport in advance can save you time and help you start your trip smoothly. Below, we’ll outline how to get to Shantou’s city center and provide more details on the different types of transportation available.
Getting to and from Shantou City Center
Traveling between Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport and the city of Shantou is straightforward, with several options for transfers. The airport is located about 28.5 kilometers from downtown Shantou, and the journey is well-served by public and private transport.
The most popular and economical method is the airport express bus. There are dedicated bus lines that run directly to different parts of Shantou, making it a convenient choice for most travelers. These buses are modern and comfortable, ensuring a pleasant ride into the city.
For those seeking a more direct or private transfer, taxis and pre-booked car services are also readily available. These options offer door-to-door service, which can be particularly useful if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling in a group. No matter your preference, reaching Shantou from the international airport is hassle-free.
Taxi, Bus, and Private Transfers
Chaoshan Airport offers several ground transportation choices to suit different budgets and preferences. The airport express bus is a highly recommended option for its affordability and efficiency. The ticket office is conveniently located near Exit 4 of the Arrival Hall.
For those heading to the city of Shantou, there are two main bus routes: the Shantou East Line and the Shantou West Line. Both cost CNY 20 and run from the first flight arrival until after the last flight of the day. Taxis are also available at designated stands, but it is important to ensure the driver uses the meter to avoid overcharging.
Here is a summary of your key transport options:
- Airport Express Bus: Routes to Shantou, Jieyang, and Chaozhou are available.
- Shantou East Line Bus: Goes to Shantou General Long-distance Bus Station.
- Shantou West Line Bus: Goes to Shantou Overseas Chinese Hotel.
- Taxi: Available at designated locations for each city. It’s best to insist on using the meter.
- Private Transfers: Can be pre-booked for a personalized airport transfer experience.
Conclusion
In summary, Shantou Airport serves as a vital gateway for travelers looking to explore Guangdong Province. With its modern facilities and comprehensive range of domestic and international airlines, it makes navigating your journey seamless and enjoyable. Understanding the terminal layout and available amenities can enhance your travel experience, while the various ground transportation options ensure easy access to Shantou city center. Whether you’re visiting for leisure or business, being informed about the airport’s offerings will help you plan better. For any further assistance, feel free to reach out to local resources or your travel agent to ensure a smooth trip. Safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is real-time flight status available for Shantou airport?
Yes, you can find live arrivals and departure information for Jieyang Chaoshan Airport. For the most accurate, real-time flight status, it is best to check the official airport website (www.cs-airport.com) or the website of the specific airline you are flying with. This will provide up-to-the-minute details on your flight.
Are there other airports near Shantou?
The only commercial airport serving the city of Shantou is Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport. The old Shantou Waisha Airport, which previously handled international flights, is no longer in civilian use. It now functions exclusively as a military air base, so all passenger travel goes through the new airport.
Where can I find schedules and timetables for flights from Shantou airport?
To find the latest flight schedules and timetables for Chaoshan International Airport, the best resources are the official websites of the airlines that operate there. You can also visit the official airport website, which provides comprehensive information on daily domestic and international flight schedules for travel to and from the city of Shantou.