Beijing, as one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs, operates multiple airports to handle domestic and international flights. Whether you’re flying in for business, tourism, or a layover, knowing which airport serves your route can save you time and stress.
This guide covers Beijing’s major airports, their key airlines and routes, transportation options, and tips for a smooth travel experience.
1. Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) – 北京首都国际机场
📍 Location: Northeast Beijing (25 km from city center)
✈ Terminals: T1, T2, T3 (T3 is one of the world’s largest)
🚖 Transport: Airport Express (subway), taxis, airport buses
Key Features:
✔ Main international hub for Beijing (handling 100+ million passengers yearly).
✔ Major airlines: Air China, Hainan Airlines, Star Alliance members.
✔ Key routes:
- Intercontinental: New York, London, Paris, Sydney, Tokyo.
- Domestic: Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Hong Kong.
✔ Facilities:- Free Wi-Fi, luxury lounges, 24-hour dining.
- Direct high-speed train to Beijing Daxing Airport (PKX) (future expansion).
Best For:
- Long-haul international flights.
- Business travelers (closer to downtown than Daxing).
2. Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) – 北京大兴国际机场
📍 Location: Southern Beijing (46 km from city center)
✈ Terminals: Single mega-terminal (star-shaped design)
🚖 Transport: Daxing Airport Express (subway), intercity trains, taxis
Key Features:
✔ Opened in 2019, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects (futuristic, ultra-efficient).
✔ Major airlines: China Southern, China Eastern, SkyTeam members, British Airways.
✔ Key routes:
- Europe: London, Paris, Moscow.
- Domestic: Shenzhen, Chongqing, Kunming.
✔ Facilities:- Fastest security clearance in China.
- Indoor gardens, shopping zones, capsule hotels.
Best For:
- Newer, less crowded alternative to PEK.
- Flights to Southern China & select European destinations.
Which Airport Should You Choose?
| Factor | Capital (PEK) | Daxing (PKX) |
|---|---|---|
| Distance to City | 25 km (closer) | 46 km (farther) |
| International Flights | More options | Growing, but fewer |
| Domestic Flights | Extensive | Increasing coverage |
| Transport | Airport Express, taxi | Airport Express, train |
| Crowds | Busier | Less crowded |
Quick Tips:
✔ PEK is better for most international flights.
✔ PKX is ideal if flying with China Southern or to Southern China.
✔ Always confirm your airport before booking! (Some airlines moved from PEK to PKX.)
How to Get to/from Beijing’s Airports?
1. Airport Express Train (Subway) – Recommend👍
- PEK (Capital):
- 🚇 Capital Airport Express Line: Takes about 35 mins to Dongzhimen subway station (downtown) Directions.
- Cost: ¥25 (~$3.50).
- PKX (Daxing):
- 🚇 Daxing Airport Express Line: Takes 20 mins to Caoqiao (Line 10) Directions.
- Cost: ¥35 (~$5).
2. Taxi / Ride-Hailing (Didi) – Recommend👍
- PEK to downtown: ¥80–120 (~$12–18, 40–60 mins).
- PKX to downtown: ¥150–200 (~$22–30, 60–80 mins).
3. Airport Buses
- PEK: Multiple routes (¥15–30).
- PKX: Connects to major transport hubs.
4. Intercity Trains (Daxing Only)
- High-speed rail to Xiong’an, Tianjin, and more.
Travel Tips
✔ PEK has 3 terminals (T1, T2, T3)—check your airline’s terminal!
✔ PKX’s single terminal is huge—allow extra time for walking.
✔ Visa-free transit (240 hours) available at both PEK & PKX.
