โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
120
minutes
International โ Domestic
120
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
150
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) is one of China's busiest aviation hubs, currently operating with two massive terminals, Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2), with Terminal 3 (T3) under development as part of a significant expansion. The airport serves as the primary hub for China Southern Airlines and a key gateway for the Pearl River Delta. T1 and T2 are located approximately 3 kilometers apart, with a distinct architectural style and functional focus. T2 is the newer, larger facility, designed to handle the lion's share of international traffic and premium carrier operations.
Terminal 2, which opened in 2018, is a state-of-the-art four-story facility that serves as the main base for China Southern Airlines and its partners. It is renowned for its 'smart' airport features, including widespread self-service check-in kiosks, automated baggage drop-offs, and facial recognition technology at boarding gates. The terminal is organized by levels: the first level for arrivals, the second for domestic and international transit, the third for departures and security, and the fourth floor dedicated to a massive commercial area with over 360 retail and dining outlets, including high-end luxury brands and authentic Cantonese cuisine.
Terminal 1 is an older but extensively modernized structure primarily focused on domestic flights. It is divided into a Main Terminal building and two massive concourses: East (gates A01-A133) and West (gates B01-B235). Each concourse is further divided into three piers, which can make walking distances significant for passengers. T1 offers a wide array of amenities, including traditional Chinese medical service points, numerous business lounges, and a large selection of dining options ranging from Western fast food to traditional teahouses. The lower level of T1 provides direct access to the Airport South Metro station.
Navigating between T1 and T2 is highly efficient thanks to multiple complimentary transport options. The Guangzhou Metro Line 3 connects the two terminals via Airport South (T1) and Airport North (T2) stations; the ride takes approximately 2 minutes and is free for passengers. Additionally, a complimentary 24-hour shuttle bus service operates between the two terminals, picking up at Gate 10 of T1 and Gate 42 of T2. During peak hours, these buses run every 5 to 10 minutes, ensuring that even tight connections are manageable within this expansive airport complex.
๐ Connection Tips
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) is one of China's most advanced aviation hubs and the primary global base for China Southern Airlines. Connections are largely defined by the distinction between its two massive facilities: Terminal 1, which handles many domestic and non-SkyTeam regional flights, and the state-of-the-art Terminal 2, which serves as the hub for China Southern and its partners.
For international transit passengers, the 144-hour visa-free transit (TWOV) policy is a major benefit, allowing eligible citizens to explore Guangdong Province without a visa. Upon arrival, follow the blue signs for '24/144-Hour Transit' to obtain a temporary entry permit before reaching immigration. If you have a layover between 8 and 48 hours with China Southern, visit their transit counter in Terminal 2 to arrange a complimentary transit hotel stay.
Transferring between terminals is highly efficient. A free shuttle bus runs 24/7 (Gate 10 at T1; Gate 42 at T2), taking approximately 15 minutes. Alternatively, the Metro Line 3 provides free one-stop transit between Airport South (T1) and Airport North (T2).
If you are on a through-ticket with China Southern, your baggage is typically checked to your final destination, and Intl-to-Intl transit involves only a dedicated security re-check. For Intl-to-Dom transfers, however, you must reclaim your bags and clear customs before using the domestic transfer desk on the first floor of Terminal 2. A critical tip for all travelers: Chinese security is exceptionally strict regarding power banks. Ensure your device has a clearly visible capacity label and is under 100Wh (27,000mAh), or it will be confiscated. Additionally, use the self-service kiosks to scan your passport for a Wi-Fi code, but remember that many Western websites are blocked unless you are using a roaming SIM card.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Altay Xuedu Airport (AAT), situated in Altay City within China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, serves as a modern and crucial regional air hub. This airport primarily facilitates domestic travel, connecting the scenic northern Xinjiang region with major Chinese cities. The single passenger terminal, spanning 12,375 square meters, boasts a contemporary design with efficient passenger flow in mind. It is equipped with four jet bridges, allowing for comfortable boarding and deplaning for aircraft up to the size of a Boeing 737-800.
The terminal's layout is intuitively structured over two floors. The ground floor is dedicated to arrivals, check-in, and baggage claim, providing essential services such as check-in counters, baggage processing facilities, and various airline offices. The first floor serves as the primary departure zone, featuring comfortable waiting areas and direct access to the boarding gates. Throughout the terminal, clear signage in both Chinese and English aids navigation, ensuring a smooth experience for both domestic and international visitors.
AAT offers a range of passenger amenities designed for comfort and convenience. These include several cafes and shops where travelers can purchase souvenirs, local products, and travel essentials. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, a VIP Lounge is available. The airport's operational efficiency is supported by modern security screening, making pre-flight formalities swift, even during peak travel periods, largely driven by the region's growing ice and snow tourism.
๐ Connection Tips
Altay Xuedu Airport primarily functions as a domestic connector within China, with an extensive network of 24 domestic flight routes. Major airlines such as China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, and Air China operate from AAT, linking Altay to key cities like Urumqi, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Xi'an. While there are no direct international flights from AAT, travelers seeking international connections would typically route through larger Chinese hubs like Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (URC) or directly from one of the major national hubs mentioned.\n\nWhen planning connections at AAT, especially for domestic flights, the single-terminal layout and efficient operations mean relatively short transfer times. However, it is still advisable to allow 2-3 hours for domestic connections to account for check-in formalities, security screening, and any potential delays, particularly during the busy summer and winter tourist seasons when the airport experiences higher passenger volumes.\n\nFor onward travel from Altay Airport to the city or local tourist attractions, various ground transport options are available. Taxis are readily accessible outside the terminal. For those planning to explore more remote areas, such as the border regions, it's crucial to plan routes in advance and be aware of public transport schedules or consider hiring a private vehicle. During the summer, the airport plans to expand connections to cities like Wuhan, Chengdu, and Harbin, further enhancing its role as a regional gateway.
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