Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) sits about 16 kilometres southwest of downtown Chengdu in the Shuangliu district, serving as the primary air gateway to Sichuan's capital for decades. Until the opening of the newer Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in 2021, Shuangliu handled the vast majority of the region's air traffic. It remains a busy airport, operating two terminals: Terminal 1 for international flights and Terminal 2 for domestic. The airport is a hub for Sichuan Airlines and Air China, and also serves as a focus city for China Eastern and China Southern. Its proximity to the city centre makes it a convenient option for travellers heading into Chengdu, though the airport's peak hours—Monday and Tuesday at noon, Wednesday at 3 pm, and Thursday at noon—mean queues can form quickly.

Getting There

Chengdu's metro system provides the most straightforward access. Line 10 runs directly to both terminals from Taipingyuan station, connecting to lines 3 and 7. The journey from downtown takes about 30 minutes, and trains run from around 6 am to 11 pm. A single ticket costs about 5 yuan, depending on distance. Taxis are plentiful and cost roughly 60 to 100 yuan from the city centre, taking 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Airport shuttle buses also operate from several points in the city, including the main railway station and key hotels. Buses run every 20 to 30 minutes and cost around 15 yuan. For those driving, the airport is accessible via the G4202 Chengdu Ring Expressway, and long-term parking is available at both terminals.

Inside the Terminal

Shuangliu's two terminals are connected by a free inter-terminal shuttle bus. Terminal 1, used for international flights, is smaller and more straightforward. Terminal 2, handling domestic flights, is larger with more retail and dining options. Upon arrival, passengers follow signs in Chinese and English to baggage claim and customs. The airport provides wheelchair-accessible entrances, car parks, and toilets, as well as wheelchair-accessible toilets with grab bars. Changing tables are available in both terminals' restrooms. Baggage storage is located in Terminal 2 near the arrival hall, charging per piece per day. Security checkpoints are standard, with separate lanes for families and first-class. The atmosphere is functional; the older terminals lack the grandeur of newer Chinese airports but are clean and efficient. Wi-Fi is free but requires a Chinese mobile number for registration. Peak hours around noon and 3 pm see longer queues at check-in and security. Passengers are advised to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights.

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport and Chengdu

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, is a city of contrasts—ancient history meets modern tech. It is best known as the home of the giant panda: the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, about 20 kilometres north of the airport, is a must-visit for travellers. Beyond pandas, the city offers the Wuhou Shrine, dedicated to the Three Kingdoms period, and the Jinli Ancient Street, lined with shops and teahouses. Chengdu's culinary scene is legendary, especially its hotpot and mapo tofu, often described as mouth-numbingly spicy. The surrounding Sichuan basin is rich in natural beauty—mountains, bamboo forests, and the Leshan Giant Buddha, about 140 kilometres away. The city has grown into a tech and innovation hub, hosting major companies and a thriving start-up scene. Shuangliu Airport serves as the primary connection for these travellers, handling domestic flights to most Chinese cities and international routes to destinations like Tokyo, Seoul, Bangkok, and Amsterdam. Despite the newer Tianfu airport, Shuangliu remains important for its proximity to the city centre and its role as a hub for regional airlines. For many visitors, the first taste of Sichuan is not the cuisine but the efficient, no-nonsense atmosphere of Shuangliu's terminals.

Practical Information

The airport is open daily from approximately 5:30 am to 1:00 am, though flight schedules may extend operating hours. Contact the airport at +86 28 8520 5555 or visit https://www.cdairport.com/ for flight information and services. All confirmed facilities—wheelchair-accessible entrance, car park, toilets, and changing tables—are operational. Baggage storage is available in Terminal 2. For a smooth experience, use the metro to avoid traffic during peak hours; it is both the cheapest and most reliable way to reach the airport.