Xi'an Airport: Transport, Services and Travel Tips

Xi'an, the ancient capital of Chang'an, is famous for the Terracotta Warriors and its role as the starting point of the Silk Road. Your gateway to this historic city is Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (XIY), the largest airport in north-west China.

One thing to note: despite its name, the airport is not actually located in Xi'an. It is in nearby Xianyang City, around 25 to 40 km from Xi'an city centre. A brand-new terminal also opened in 2025, bringing updated facilities and services for travellers.

Before your trip, here is everything you need to know about finding the right terminal, getting into the city and making the most of your visit to Xi'an. ✈️

Essential information about Xi'an Xianyang Airport (XIY)

Xi'an Xianyang Airport is more than just an airport: it handles over 48 million passengers a year, serves as a major transport hub in north-western China, and is a key base for airlines such as China Eastern and Hainan Airlines.

Its main drawback is its location. The airport sits to the north-west of Xi'an, outside the city centre, while most tourist attractions are located on the opposite side of the city. It is worth planning ahead, as the journey into central Xi'an can easily take around 1 hour after a long flight.

Here are the key things to know:

• Located about 25 to 40 km north-west of Xi'an city centre, in Xianyang City (Xixian area).
• Currently has three passenger terminals: T2, T3 and the newly opened T5. Terminal 1 is currently closed.
• A major hub for China Eastern and Hainan Airlines, with many other airlines operating services here.
• Connected to the city by Metro Line 14, airport buses and taxis.

Major changes to Xi'an Airport terminals: T2, T3 and T5

The biggest change to know about Xi'an Xianyang International Airport is the opening of Terminal 5 (T5) in February 2025. This impressive new terminal is larger than T1, T2 and T3 combined and has completely changed how the airport operates.

Inspired by Tang Dynasty architecture, T5 features an archaeological museum inside the terminal, making it the first airport in the world to include such a facility. More importantly, it has become the main terminal for international flights and many domestic services.

🚨 Important terminal rule

Since 20 February 2025, all international flights arrive at and depart from T5. If you are flying from London to Xi'an, you will use Terminal 5.

For domestic flights, the transfer of airlines to T5 is still ongoing, so terminal information may change. Some airline websites may show outdated details. The most reliable way is to check the terminal shown on your flight ticket or boarding pass.

How to transfer between terminals

The terminals are separate buildings, and T5 is slightly further away from T2 and T3. A free airport shuttle bus connects all three terminals 24 hours a day, running every 5–10 minutes.

• T2 shuttle stop: Exit 213
• T3 shuttle stop: Exit 316
• T5 shuttle stop: Exit 512

You can also take Metro Line 14, which connects T2/T3 with T5 in around 8 minutes.

Transport to and from Xi'an Airport

The metro is one of the most popular options for travellers. Metro Line 14 connects Xi'an Airport with Xi'an North Railway Station, where you can transfer to reach the city centre.

Here are the main transport options, from the cheapest to the most comfortable:

🚇 Taking the metro from Xi'an Airport

• Metro Line 14 takes you to Xi'an North Railway Station, the city's main high-speed rail hub. From there, transfer to Metro Line 2 to reach the city centre and the Bell Tower area. The total journey usually takes around 1–1.25 hours and costs only a few yuan.
• Make sure you choose the correct airport station: “Airport West” serves Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 and “Airport T5” serves Terminal 5 directly.
• The metro usually operates from around 6:00 am to 11:20 pm. The last train from T5 towards the city leaves at around 10:24 pm. If your flight arrives later, consider taking a taxi or Didi instead.
• For payment, most passengers use Alipay or WeChat Pay QR codes. The T5 metro station also accepts foreign bank cards at ticket machines, making it more convenient for international travellers.

Xi'an Airport arrivals and departures: practical tips

On arrival

• Immigration: Foreign passengers use separate immigration lanes and need to complete an arrival card (often provided during the flight).
• Baggage claim: For international flights, baggage carousels are located in the T5 Arrivals Hall.
• Customs: Use the green channel if you have nothing to declare, or the red channel if you need to declare items. Fresh food and large amounts of cash are commonly checked.
• Leaving the airport: Follow the signs to the metro (Level -1 of T5), taxis or the inter-terminal shuttle bus.

On departure

• Check-in: For international flights, arrive around 3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, allow around 2 hours.
• Security checks: Leave extra time during busy periods, especially in the morning and late afternoon, as queues can sometimes last for more than half an hour.
• Travel documents: Keep your passport easily accessible, as it may be checked several times, including on domestic flights.

Arrival requirements in Xi'an: visa and regulations

The good news is that travel requirements for China have become much easier. Since late 2023, China has gradually reopened to international visitors, and the current visa-free policy has been extended until 31 December 2026.

• 30-day visa-free entry: British citizens and most EU passport holders can enter mainland China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days per entry. This covers tourism, business, visiting family and transit, with no advance application required.
• 240-hour visa-free transit: Xi'an is also one of the eligible cities for the 240-hour visa-free transit policy. This can be useful for travellers who do not qualify for the 30-day visa exemption or are only passing through China. However, for eligible British travellers, the 30-day visa-free entry option is usually simpler.

Entry requirements

• Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months when entering China.
• Each stay can last up to 30 days, and the 30-day period resets after each new entry into mainland China.
• Your reason for travel must match the permitted purposes, such as tourism, business, family visits or transit. Work and study are not covered by this visa-free policy.

Services and facilities at Xi'an Airport

With the brand-new Terminal 5 and renovated Terminals 2 and 3, Xi'an Xianyang International Airport offers a wide range of facilities for a comfortable journey.

• Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the terminals. Connection may require a Chinese phone number or registration at a self-service kiosk.
• Airport lounges: Business and first-class lounges are available across the terminals, including airline lounges from carriers such as China Eastern and Hainan Airlines. Some lounges can also be accessed with Priority Pass or eligible bank cards.
• Food and dining: Passengers can enjoy local Shaanxi specialities such as roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), biangbiang noodles and liangpi, as well as Sichuan cuisine, Western food and cafés in the departure areas.
• Tax refund and other services: VAT refund counters, ATMs, luggage storage facilities and charging stations are available throughout the terminals.

Airport lounges at Xi'an Airport

Where to eat at Xi'an Xianyang Airport?

What to do in Xi'an after landing?

Few cities in China offer such a rich concentration of history. As the ancient capital of 13 dynasties, Xi'an is home to world-famous historical sites, while its street food scene is an experience in itself.

• Terracotta Warriors: The must-see attraction in Xi'an, located in Lintong to the east of the city. Thousands of life-sized warriors stand guard over the tomb of China's first emperor.
• Ming City Wall: One of the best-preserved ancient city walls in the world. Cycling along the wall at sunset is one of the best ways to enjoy the views.
• Bell Tower and Muslim Quarter: The heart of the old city, with historic streets, lively alleys and some of Xi'an's best street food.
• Giant Wild Goose Pagoda: A famous Buddhist landmark, especially beautiful at night when combined with a visit to the nearby Datang Everbright City.
• Mount Hua: A great choice for adventure seekers. One of China's Five Great Mountains, it can be visited as a day trip from Xi'an.
• Shaanxi History Museum: One of China's most impressive museums, offering a great introduction to over 3,000 years of local history before exploring the city's main attractions.

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