Key Highlights
- Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN) is your gateway to coastal China, conveniently located on Xiamen Island.
- The airport features two main terminals, T3 for international travel and T4 for most domestic flights.
- Major airlines like Xiamen Airlines offer extensive routes, including direct flights to destinations like Hong Kong.
- Getting to the city is easy with affordable options like shuttle buses, city buses, and rapid transit.
- Once you have your boarding pass, you can enjoy services like lounges, Wi-Fi, and various dining options.
Introduction
Welcome to Xiamen! Your journey likely begins at Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN), the primary air hub serving the beautiful coastal city of Xiamen in China’s Fujian province. This busy airport is perfectly positioned just 12 km from the downtown area, making your transition from air to city exploration incredibly smooth. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, this guide will provide you with all the essential information to navigate the airport with ease and start your adventure.
Key Features of Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport
Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport is a major hub with modern facilities designed to handle millions of passengers. The airport currently operates with a large sq meter terminal complex split between international (T3) and domestic (T4) flights, ensuring an organized flow of travelers.
While this airport serves the region well, the construction of a new terminal at the upcoming Xiamen Xiang’an International Airport is underway to meet future demand. For now, Gaoqi International Airport remains the primary gateway, offering excellent rapid transit connections to the city.
Terminals, Layout, and Major Facilities
Navigating Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport is straightforward. The airport is located on the north side of Xiamen Island and is comprised of two terminals, T3 and T4. Since the opening of Terminal 4, T3 now primarily handles international flights, while T4 serves domestic routes. A free shuttle bus connects the two terminals, running frequently throughout their operating hours.
Arrivals for both domestic and international flights are processed on the 1st floor of their respective terminals. Here, you’ll find baggage claim, customs, and access to ground transportation. Departures are located on the upper levels, with check-in counters and security screening. The total sq meter terminal area offers a range of services to make your journey comfortable before you even board your flight to or from the city of Xiamen.
| Level/Floor | Main Function |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | Arrivals, Baggage Claim, Customs, Ground Transport |
| Level 2 | Departures (Check-in), Security (T3) |
| Level 3 | Departures (Check-in), Security (T4) |
Airport Services: Lounges, Wi-Fi, Shopping, and Dining
Xiamen Airport provides a variety of amenities to enhance your travel experience. For those looking to relax before their flight, several airport lounges are available. The DragonPass Lounge in T3 and the SkyTeam Lounge in T4 offer comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, and a quiet environment. You can access these lounges if you are a business-class flyer or through programs like Priority Pass.
Staying connected is simple with free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminals. You can connect to the “Xiamen Airport” network via SMS verification. When it comes to shopping and dining, you’ll find a good mix of options. From duty-free stores in the international departures area to popular cafes and local eateries, there’s something to suit every taste and budget. The airport also hosts essential services to support its operations, including a leading aircraft maintenance provider.
- Free Wi-Fi: Connect to the “Xiamen Airport” network.
- Dining: Options include Starbucks, KFC, and local snack shops.
- Shopping: Duty-free, Uniqlo, Miniso, and Fujian tea shops are available.
- Lounges: Located in both T3 (international) and T4 (domestic).
Airlines & Flight Destinations
Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport is a bustling hub for numerous airlines, connecting the region to destinations across China and the world. As the main base for Xiamen Airlines, the airport offers an extensive network of flights. You can easily find routes to major global cities, including popular destinations like Hong Kong and Amsterdam.
Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, the process is streamlined. After checking in and receiving your boarding pass, you’ll proceed through security to your gate. This international airport serves as a critical link for travelers exploring the Fujian province and beyond. Let’s look at some of the major carriers and routes available.
Major Domestic and International Carriers
A wide array of airlines operates out of Xiamen, making it a well-connected international airport. The flagship carrier is Xiamen Airlines, which uses the airport as its primary hub to connect Fujian province with the rest of the world. Other major Chinese airlines, including China Eastern and Air China, also have a significant presence here, offering numerous domestic routes.
On the international front, you can find flights from several well-known carriers. Cathay Pacific provides a convenient link to Hong Kong, while Singapore Airlines, Korean Air, and Malaysia Airlines connect Xiamen to their respective hubs in Southeast and East Asia. These airlines make it simple for international visitors to access this vibrant coastal city.
Some of the key airlines serving Xiamen include:
- Xiamen Airlines: The main hub airline with extensive domestic and international routes.
- China Eastern Airlines: Connects Xiamen to major Chinese cities like Shanghai and Beijing.
- Cathay Pacific: Offers direct flights to and from Hong Kong.
- Singapore Airlines: Provides a direct link to Singapore’s Changi Airport.
Flight Timetables and Direct Route Highlights
Checking flight timetables in advance is always a good idea to plan your trip effectively. Xiamen Airport offers a robust schedule with frequent departures and arrivals throughout the day. Xiamen Airlines, as the home carrier, provides many of these services, including numerous direct routes to key domestic and international cities. This makes travel planning flexible, whether you’re taking a short trip to Hong Kong or a long-haul journey.
Direct routes are a major advantage, saving you time and hassle. From Xiamen, you can fly non-stop to many destinations. According to Xiamen International Airport Group, the airport connects to 119 cities, including 96 domestic and 23 international ones. [1] This connectivity makes the airport a convenient starting point for various travel itineraries.
| Destination | Sample Airlines | Flight Type |
|---|---|---|
| Hong Kong (HKG) | Xiamen Airlines, Cathay Pacific | Direct |
| Singapore (SIN) | Xiamen Airlines, Singapore Airlines | Direct |
| Beijing (PEK) | Xiamen Airlines, Air China | Direct |
| Shanghai (SHA/PVG) | Xiamen Airlines, China Eastern | Direct |
Transportation from Xiamen Airport to Downtown & Beyond
Once you land, getting from Xiamen Airport to the city of Xiamen is a breeze thanks to a variety of transportation options. Conveniently located shuttle buses can take you directly to key areas like the Xiamen Railway Station. For a faster journey, taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available just outside the arrivals hall.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly choice, the city’s public bus network and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system are excellent alternatives. This rapid transit system helps you avoid city traffic and connects you to different parts of the city efficiently. Below, we’ll explore these options in more detail.
Shuttle Buses, City Buses, and BRT Options
The airport shuttle buses are one of the most popular ways to reach the city. Several lines operate from the airport, serving different destinations. The most useful for tourists is the line to the Ferry Dock, which is perfect for those heading to Gulangyu Island or staying downtown. Other lines connect to the Xiamen Railway Station and the Xiamen North Railway Station.
For those on a tighter budget, city buses and the BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) are fantastic choices. The BRT is an elevated bus system that bypasses street-level traffic, offering a quick and incredibly cheap way to travel. It provides excellent subway links and connects the airport to major hubs like the North Railway Station. City buses offer more routes, covering nearly every corner of Xiamen.
Key transport options include:
- Shuttle Buses: Lines to the Ferry Dock, Xiamen Railway Station, and more.
- BRT (Rapid Transit): Line L19 is a fast, elevated bus to downtown.
- City Buses: Route #37 and others offer extensive coverage for just ¥1-2.
- North Railway Station Connection: Accessible via shuttle bus or BRT.
Taxis, Ride-Hailing, and Booking Transfers
For ultimate convenience, taxis are available 24/7 outside the arrivals area of both terminals. A trip to the downtown area typically takes about 20-30 minutes and costs around ¥30-50. Always use the official taxi queue to avoid unlicensed drivers. Note that a small surcharge may apply for trips after 11:00 PM.
Ride-hailing services like DiDi (China’s version of Uber) are also a great option and often slightly cheaper than traditional taxis. You can book a car through the app and meet your driver at the designated pickup points. For those who prefer to have everything arranged in advance, booking transfers online is a reliable choice, especially if you’re traveling in a group or with a lot of luggage. This ensures a driver will be waiting for you upon arrival, ready to take you to your hotel or the Xiamen North Railway station.
- Taxis: Available 24/7 at official queues in T3 and T4.
- Ride-Hailing: Use apps like DiDi for potentially lower fares.
- Booking Transfers: Pre-book online for a hassle-free arrival.
- Operating Hours: Taxis run around the clock, with night surcharges.
Conclusion
Navigating Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport can be a breeze with the right information at your fingertips. From its modern facilities and convenient transport options to a range of airlines serving both domestic and international destinations, this airport is designed to enhance your travel experience. Remember to take advantage of the lounges for comfort and plan your transportation ahead to ensure a smooth transition to downtown. With this guide, you’re now equipped to make the most of your journey through coastal China. For personalized tips and assistance, feel free to reach out for a free consultation! Safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the airport code for Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport?
The airport code for Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport is XMN. This three-letter code is used by airlines and booking systems worldwide to identify this key international airport. As the main gateway to the city of Xiamen and Fujian province, you’ll see “XMN” on your boarding pass and luggage tags.
How do I get from Xiamen airport to the city center?
Getting from Xiamen Airport to the city center is easy. You can take affordable shuttle buses to key locations like the Xiamen Railway Station, use the cheap and efficient rapid transit (BRT), or grab a taxi for a direct 20-30 minute ride. City buses are also available for a very low cost.
Are there direct international flights from Xiamen?
Yes, there are many direct international flights from Xiamen. The international airport is a hub for airlines like Xiamen Airlines, which offers non-stop services to destinations across Asia, Europe, and North America. Popular direct routes include flights to Hong Kong, Singapore, Amsterdam, and Los Angeles.