Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (IATA: CTU), commonly known as Shuangliu Airport, is located approximately 16 kilometers southwest of downtown Chengdu in Sichuan Province. As the largest airport in Southwest China and the nation's fourth-busiest aviation hub, it serves as a critical economic driver for Chengdu and a vital bridge connecting western China to global destinations.
Historical Development
Chengdu's aviation history began in 1938 with a simple airstrip near Shuangguisi Temple. The modern airport era commenced in 1956 when the facility was officially transferred to civil aviation administration and renamed Chengdu Shuangliu Airport. Through multiple expansions from the 1960s to 1980s, the airport gradually evolved into a major transportation hub.
A significant milestone came in 2003 when Shuangliu became China's fourth airport (after Beijing Capital, Shanghai Pudong, and Guangzhou Baiyun) to install Category II Instrument Landing Systems. This advancement dramatically improved operational reliability during adverse weather conditions.
Infrastructure and Operations
Spanning 500,000 square meters, Shuangliu Airport currently handles over 50 million annual passengers—frequently exceeding its designed capacity. The facility features two terminal buildings (domestic and international) equipped with modern amenities including self-service kiosks, baggage systems, and free Wi-Fi.
Three cargo terminals totaling 107,000 square meters process 1.5 million tons annually, establishing Shuangliu as central-western China's premier logistics hub. Major carriers like UPS, DHL, and SF Express operate here, supporting Sichuan's booming electronics manufacturing sector.
Transportation Facilities
The airport operates two parallel 3,600-meter runways (02L/20R and 02R/20L) with advanced instrument landing systems. A 703,000-square-meter apron accommodates 57 remote parking positions, with expansion plans underway to meet growing demand.
Since 2014, the integrated Chengdu-Mianyang-Leshan intercity railway has connected the airport to key urban transit hubs like Chengdu South and East Stations, creating a seamless multimodal transportation network.
Passenger Services
Shuangliu Airport offers international-standard services including duty-free shopping, diverse dining options, lounges, and business centers. Seasonal events like Lunar New Year celebrations enhance passenger experience, while multilingual service counters and volunteer teams assist international travelers and special-needs passengers.
Safety and Security
The airport maintains rigorous security protocols with advanced screening equipment and specialized emergency response systems, ensuring operational stability and passenger safety.
Airline Network
As a major international hub, Shuangliu hosts domestic carriers like Air China, China Eastern, and China Southern alongside numerous international airlines. Its route network spans China and reaches key global destinations across Southeast Asia, Japan/Korea, Europe, and North America, with continuous expansion through strategic partnerships.
Sustainability Initiatives
The airport implements eco-friendly measures including energy-efficient systems, optimized flight scheduling, and green transportation options like EV charging stations, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Future Development
Planned expansions include new terminals, additional aircraft parking, and enhanced cargo capacity to accommodate Chengdu's rapid economic growth. The airport aims to strengthen international collaborations, positioning itself as western China's premier global aviation gateway.
This comprehensive transportation hub continues to drive regional economic development while serving as a vital cultural and commercial bridge between China's western regions and the world.
