Overview
Daocheng Yading Airport is a relatively new airport located in the Daocheng County of Sichuan Province, China. It was opened in September 2013 and has since become a popular destination for tourists visiting the nearby Yading Nature Reserve. The airport is situated at an altitude of 4,411 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest civilian airports in the world.
The construction of the airport was a challenging feat due to the high altitude and difficult terrain of the area. However, it has proved to be a significant achievement as it has greatly improved the accessibility of the region. Prior to the opening of the airport, the only way to reach Yading was by driving on winding mountain roads that took several hours to navigate.
The airport has a single runway measuring 4,200 meters in length and 45 meters in width. It is capable of accommodating large aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. Despite its remote location, the airport has modern facilities including a terminal building, parking area, and control tower.
Since its opening, the airport has played an essential role in boosting the tourism industry in the region. The Yading Nature Reserve, which is known for its stunning natural scenery, has become a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. In 2019, the airport handled over 700,000 passengers, and this number is expected to increase in the coming years.
In conclusion, Daocheng Yading Airport has proven to be a crucial transportation hub for the region and has significantly impacted the local economy through increased tourism. Its unique location and modern facilities make it a notable achievement in the aviation industry.
Terminals of Daocheng Yading Airport
Daocheng Yading Airport is a high-altitude airport located in the Sichuan province of China. The airport has only one terminal building, which is divided into two sections: domestic and international. The terminal was designed to blend in with the natural landscape of the surrounding area, and its architecture is inspired by traditional Tibetan homes.
The domestic section of the terminal is used for flights within China, while the international section is used for flights to and from neighboring countries such as Nepal. The terminal has a capacity of 280 passengers per hour and is equipped with modern facilities such as duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges.
Passengers arriving at the airport are greeted by the beautiful mountainous surroundings and clear blue skies, making for an unforgettable first impression. The terminal’s interior is decorated with murals depicting Tibetan culture and nature, adding to the overall aesthetic of the airport.
Despite its remote location, the airport sees a steady flow of tourists, especially during peak seasons such as summer and autumn. The airport’s terminals are well-equipped to handle the crowds, with efficient check-in and security procedures.
Overall, the terminals of Daocheng Yading Airport offer a unique and memorable experience for travelers. From the stunning natural surroundings to the traditional Tibetan architecture and cultural decor, the airport is a testament to China’s commitment to sustainable development and preservation of its rich cultural heritage.
Airlines and Destinations
The airlines that operate from Daocheng Yading Airport are Air China, China Eastern Airlines, Tibet Airlines, and Sichuan Airlines.
Air China operates flights to Chengdu and Chongqing. China Eastern Airlines flies to Kunming, Lhasa, and Xi’an. Tibet Airlines has routes to Chengdu, Chongqing, Lhasa, and Xi’an. Sichuan Airlines offers flights to Chengdu, Chongqing, Lhasa, and Xi’an.
All of the routes mentioned above are domestic, but during peak tourist seasons, there may be international charter flights to Dacoheng Yading Airport. It is recommended to check with airlines for updates on seasonal changes to their schedules.
Transportation Options at Daocheng Yading Airport
Daocheng Yading Airport is located in the Sichuan province of China and serves as the gateway to the beautiful Yading National Nature Reserve. As a remote airport, transportation options are limited, but there are still ways to get around.
One of the easiest options is to take the shuttle provided by the airport. The shuttle runs regularly between the airport and the nearby town of Daocheng, which is about 50 km away. From there, you can catch another shuttle to Yading National Nature Reserve or hire a private car.
Car rentals are also available at the airport, but it’s important to note that driving in this area can be challenging. Roads are often narrow and winding, and it’s common to encounter herds of yaks and other animals on the road.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, you can take the shuttle bus that runs between Daocheng and Chengdu. The journey takes about 12 hours and costs around 150 yuan. However, it’s important to note that the bus can be crowded and uncomfortable, especially for long journeys.
For those who prefer to travel by train, the nearest station is in Panzhihua, which is about 400 km away from Daocheng. From there, you can take a bus or hire a car to reach the airport. It’s worth noting that trains in this area can be delayed due to weather conditions, so it’s important to check the schedule before you travel.
Overall, while transportation options at Daocheng Yading Airport may be limited, there are still ways to get around. Whether you choose to take the shuttle, rent a car, or travel by bus or train, you’ll be able to experience the stunning natural beauty of this region.
Parking Options at Daocheng Yading Airport
Daocheng Yading Airport offers convenient and affordable parking options for travelers. The airport provides both short-term and long-term parking facilities.
For short-term parking, there is a parking lot located near the terminal building with a maximum parking duration of 24 hours. The rate is CNY 20 per hour.
For long-term parking, there is an outdoor parking lot that can accommodate up to 300 cars. The parking duration can be as long as one month and the rate is CNY 50 per day.
Moreover, there are free shuttle buses that run between the long-term parking lot and the terminal building every 10 minutes, making it easy for travelers to park their vehicles and reach the airport in no time.
It is important to note that the airport does not offer reserved parking spaces, so availability is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Travelers are advised to arrive early to ensure that they can find a parking spot.
Overall, Daocheng Yading Airport provides flexible and reasonably priced parking options to suit the needs of all travelers.
Check-In Procedures
When arriving at Daocheng Yading Airport, travelers have several options for checking in. For those who prefer to check in online, the airport offers online check-in services. This allows passengers to check in and choose their preferred seats from the comfort of their own homes.
Alternatively, travelers can use the self-service kiosks located at the airport to check in. These kiosks allow you to print your boarding pass and baggage tags, making the process quicker and more efficient.
For those who prefer the traditional method of checking in with a human representative, there are also check-in counters located throughout the airport. Agents will be available to assist with any questions and ensure that you are checked in and ready for your flight.
Regardless of which check-in method you choose, it is important to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to allow ample time for security and boarding procedures.
Overall, Daocheng Yading Airport offers a variety of convenient and efficient check-in options to help make your travel experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Security Procedures and Tips
At Daocheng Yading Airport, all passengers are required to go through security screening before boarding their flights. This includes metal detector and X-ray scans of all carry-on and checked baggage.
To ensure a smooth security check, it is important to remove all metal objects from your person and place them in your carry-on or checked baggage before going through the metal detector. This includes jewelry, belts, and coins.
Additionally, liquids and gels must be in containers no larger than 100ml and placed in a clear, plastic, sealable bag. All laptops and electronic devices must be placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening.
Following these procedures and having your documents and boarding pass ready will make for a quicker and less stressful security check experience.
Customs and Immigration Process at Daocheng Yading Airport
Upon arrival, passengers will proceed to the immigration counter with their passport and arrival card. The officer will stamp the passport and return the arrival card.
After passing through immigration, passengers will proceed to the baggage claim area to collect their luggage. Any items that are not allowed into China will be confiscated by customs officers.
For departing passengers, it is important to arrive at the airport early to allow enough time for the immigration process. Passengers will need to present their passport and boarding pass, as well as any necessary travel documents.
After passing through immigration, passengers will proceed to the security check. Any prohibited items will be confiscated by security officers.
Overall, both arriving and departing passengers should be prepared to follow all customs and immigration policies and regulations to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey through Daocheng Yading Airport.
Amenities
– ATMs and currency exchange services are available in the terminal building.
– There are several restaurants and cafes offering both Chinese and Western cuisine.
– Duty-free shops sell a range of goods including alcohol, tobacco products, and perfumes.
– The airport also has a medical clinic and a pharmacy for any health-related needs.
– Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal for passengers to use while waiting for their flights.
– For those traveling with young children, there is a designated play area located near the departure gate.
– Additionally, there are several lounges available for first class and business class passengers.
Accessibility Services
Daocheng Yading Airport strives to provide facilities and services that cater to passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
The airport offers wheelchair ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms that are located throughout the terminal buildings.
Passengers with reduced mobility can avail of the airport’s wheelchair assistance service, which can be arranged at least 24 hours before departure.
Service animals are also allowed inside the airport, but it is advisable to check with the airline beforehand.
In addition, the airport staff is trained to assist passengers with disabilities or mobility issues to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Connecting Flights at Daocheng Yading Airport
When catching a connecting flight at Daocheng Yading Airport, it is important to plan ahead and allow ample time between flights.
The airport has only one terminal, so getting from one gate to another should not be difficult. However, the airport is located at a high altitude and can be susceptible to weather-related delays and cancellations.
It is recommended to choose flights with longer layovers to account for any potential delays.
Be sure to check in advance which terminal your connecting flight will depart from and if you need to go through immigration or security again.
If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to ask airport staff for assistance.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arriving at Daocheng Yading Airport, head to the baggage claim area to collect your luggage. Make sure to double-check the baggage tags to ensure you have the correct bags.
In the event that your luggage is missing or damaged, report it immediately to the airline staff at the baggage claim counter. They will assist you in filing a report and tracking down your belongings.
If your luggage is not found within a certain time frame, you may be eligible for compensation. Additionally, if you find someone else’s lost property, report it to airport staff so they can return it to its owner.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of any emergency at Daocheng Yading Airport, passengers should immediately contact the airport staff for assistance.
The airport has a medical center equipped with trained medical professionals and necessary medical equipment to handle any medical emergency.
Passengers can also find pharmacies located in the airport terminal building that are open 24/7 for medication and first-aid supplies.
For serious medical emergencies, the airport staff can arrange for an ambulance to transport the patient to the nearest hospital.
In addition, there are several hospitals and clinics located near the airport that offer high-quality medical services.
Passengers are advised to purchase travel health insurance before visiting Daocheng Yading Airport to cover any unforeseen medical expenses.
Hotel Accommodations:
There are several hotel accommodations available within and near Daocheng Yading Airport, ranging from budget to luxury hotels. The following are at least five options for lodging near the airport:
1. Yading Daocheng Airport Hotel (0.5 km from the airport)
2. Shangrila Mountain View Hotel (4.3 km from the airport)
3. Yading Lvtu Inn (5.3 km from the airport)
4. Daocheng Tulip Inn (19.4 km from the airport)
5. Daocheng Gama Village Resort (26.8 km from the airport)
Most of these hotels offer complimentary Wi-Fi, free parking, and 24-hour room service. Visitors can choose to stay in a standard room or upgrade to a suite. Some of the hotels also have facilities such as fitness centers, indoor pools, and restaurants offering local cuisine.
Useful Tips for Daocheng Yading Airport
– Make sure to bring warm clothing as the airport is located at a high altitude and can get quite chilly.
– Be prepared for delayed flights due to unpredictable weather conditions.
– If you plan on visiting Yading Nature Reserve, make sure to purchase your entrance ticket in advance to avoid long lines at the gate.
– Taxis are available outside of the airport, but be prepared to negotiate the fare as there are no official rates.
– It is recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
– Don’t forget to try the local cuisine, such as Yak meat and butter tea, for a unique dining experience.
Contact Information
Airport Information Desk: +86 836 5738121
Lost and Found: +86 836 5738113
Baggage Storage: +86 836 5738123
VIP Lounge: +86 836 5738127
Airport Police Station: +86 836 5738126
Medical Room: +86 836 5738135
Airports near Daocheng Yading Airport
There are a few other airports in the vicinity of Daocheng Yading Airport:
1. Kangding Airport: Located about 320km from Daocheng Yading Airport, Kangding Airport is the closest alternative airport. Travelers can take a taxi or hire a car to reach Daocheng Yading Airport in about 6-7 hours.
2. Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport: Located about 1,070km from Daocheng Yading Airport, Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is the largest airport in the region. Travelers can take a flight to Chengdu and then transfer to a domestic flight to reach Daocheng Yading Airport.
3. Kunming Changshui International Airport: Located about 1,100km from Daocheng Yading Airport, Kunming Changshui International Airport is another option for travelers. Travelers can take a flight to Kunming and then transfer to a domestic flight to reach Daocheng Yading Airport.
Overall, while there aren’t many airports in the immediate vicinity of Daocheng Yading Airport, there are a few options for travelers willing to travel a bit further.