Introduction to Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (IATA: HGH, ICAO: ZSHC) is a major international airport serving Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province in eastern China. Opened in December 2000, the airport has rapidly developed into a critical transportation hub in the region, facilitating both domestic and international travel. Strategically located near the thriving Yangtze River Delta, the airport is a key player in supporting the region's economic and social development. HGH is classified as a 4F-grade international airport and is one of China's twelve major trunk airports.
Location and Accessibility
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport is situated approximately 27 kilometers east of downtown Hangzhou, in the Xiaoshan District. Its strategic position provides convenient access to one of China's most vibrant and economically significant regions. The airport is well-connected by various transportation modes, including:
Highways and expressways: The airport is accessible via several major highways, including the Hangzhou-Ningbo Expressway and the Hangzhou Bay Ring Expressway.
Public Transportation: Multiple bus routes connect the airport to Hangzhou and surrounding cities. Additionally, the Hangzhou Metro Line 1 provides a direct link to the city center, making it easy for passengers to commute.
Taxi and Car Services: Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available, offering convenient transportation options for travelers.
Facilities and Infrastructure
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport boasts modern and extensive facilities designed to accommodate a high volume of passengers and cargo. As of July 2023, the airport covers an area of 10 square kilometers and includes:
Terminal Buildings: The airport features four terminals with a total area of 1.1 million square meters. This includes three domestic terminals (T1, T2, T3) and one international terminal (T4).
Runways: The airport has two runways. The primary runway (07/25) is 3,600 meters long, and the secondary runway (06/24) is 3,400 meters long. Both runways can accommodate large aircraft, including the Airbus A380.
Parking Stands: The airport has a comprehensive aircraft parking system, including 165 stands on a 2.134 million square meter apron, with 72 boarding bridges. The cargo apron covers 623,000 square meters and includes 27 stands.
Cargo Facilities: Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport has extensive cargo handling facilities, ensuring efficient movement of goods and supporting the region's logistics and trade sectors.
Parking and Ground Transportation: The airport offers ample parking facilities for both short-term and long-term stays, as well as car rental services. Ground transportation options are readily available, making it convenient for passengers to travel to and from the airport.
Operations and Services
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport supports a wide range of aviation activities, catering to both passenger and cargo needs:
Passenger Flights: The airport serves numerous domestic and international destinations, with airlines offering regular flights to major cities in China, as well as destinations in Asia, Europe, North America, and Australia. It is a hub for China Southern Airlines and a focus city for Air China, Hainan Airlines, and XiamenAir.
Cargo Flights: The airport plays a significant role in regional and international logistics, handling a substantial volume of air cargo. The modern cargo facilities ensure efficient processing and distribution of goods, supporting the region's economic development.
General Aviation: The airport accommodates private and charter flights, providing services for business aviation, flight training, and recreational flying. Facilities for general aviation include hangars, maintenance services, and fueling stations.
Performance Statistics
In 2020, Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport achieved impressive operational statistics:
Passenger Traffic: The airport handled over 28 million passengers, making it one of the busiest airports in China.
Cargo Throughput: The airport processed over 804,000 tons of cargo, ranking it among the top cargo airports in the country.
Flights: The airport accommodated 23.73 million flight movements.
Transit Visa Exemption
Since October 2019, Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport offers a 144-hour visa-free transit policy for citizens of 51 countries. Eligible travelers holding valid international travel documents and a confirmed onward ticket to a third country (or region) within 72 hours can enter and stay in Zhejiang Province for up to 144 hours without a visa. This policy applies to citizens of countries including the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, and Japan, among others. This initiative aims to boost tourism and facilitate easier travel for international visitors.
