Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (IATA: XIY) is the main air transportation hub serving Xi’an, one of China’s most historic cities and a starting point of the ancient Silk Road. Located roughly 25 kilometers northwest of the city center, the airport plays a critical role in connecting Northwest China to the rest of the world. With modern terminals, increasing passenger traffic, and a rich connection to history, XIY is more than just an airport—it’s a modern gateway to a city steeped in heritage.
XIY History and Development
Xi’an Xianyang International Airport was developed to replace the aging Xi’an Xiguan Airport. Construction began in August 1987 and the new airport officially opened to passengers on September 1, 1991. Initially modest in scope, the airport has grown rapidly in the decades since its inauguration.
Major expansion projects have followed, including the addition of Terminal 3 in 2012, which significantly boosted the airport’s capacity and services. In February 2025, Terminal 5 officially opened to the public, featuring cutting-edge amenities and boosting total passenger handling capacity. These expansions are part of a strategic vision to transform XIY into a top-tier international aviation hub serving central and western China.
Airport Statistics
- Annual Passenger Volume: Over 47 million passengers in 2024
- Cargo Throughput: More than 265,000 metric tons annually
- Flight Movements: Over 310,000 takeoffs and landings per year
- Airport Size: Covers more than 5,000 hectares
- Terminals: Five terminals—T1 through T5
- Runways: Two active runways, with additional runways planned
- Elevation: 479 meters above sea level
- Operator: China West Airport Group
Xi’an Xianyang is ranked among the top 10 busiest airports in China for both passenger and cargo traffic and continues to grow year-over-year.
Quick Facts
- IATA Code: XIY
- ICAO Code: ZLXY
- City Served: Xi’an, Shaanxi Province
- Location: Xixian New Area, approximately 25 km from downtown Xi’an
- Time Zone: China Standard Time (UTC+8)
- Opened: September 1, 1991
Airport Facilities
Xi’an Xianyang International Airport offers a wide range of modern amenities for travelers. Each terminal is designed with comfort, convenience, and efficiency in mind.
Lounges
Several lounges are available throughout the airport, including airline-specific lounges and premium lounges accessible to first-class and business-class travelers. They feature comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, high-speed Wi-Fi, and shower facilities.
Shopping and Dining
The terminals are filled with duty-free shops, retail stores, and dining options that reflect both international and regional offerings. Passengers can browse local Xi’an snacks and souvenirs, luxury goods, and global brands. Dining ranges from fast food to sit-down restaurants, including Chinese noodle bars, dumpling houses, and Western-style cafes.
Sleep Pods and Transit Hotels
Sleep pods are available for rent by the hour in Terminals 2 and 3, equipped with a bed, television, charging ports, and Wi-Fi. There are also transit hotels for longer layovers or overnight stays.
Family Amenities
Dedicated nursing rooms, children’s play areas, and stroller rental services make the airport family-friendly. Changing tables and family restrooms are also available.
Accessibility Services
Barrier-free facilities are provided throughout all terminals, including elevators, wheelchair-accessible ramps, tactile paving, and special assistance services for elderly passengers and those with disabilities.
Free Wi-Fi
Free, high-speed wireless internet is available across all public areas of the airport.
Airlines and Destinations
Xi’an Xianyang International Airport serves as a hub for several Chinese carriers and connects to major cities across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
Main Hub Airlines
- China Eastern Airlines
- Joy Air
- Hainan Airlines
- Okay Airways
- Tianjin Airlines
International Airlines
- Qatar Airways
- Singapore Airlines
- Korean Air
- Asiana Airlines
- AirAsia
- Lufthansa
XIY connects to over 175 destinations across 19 countries, making it an important link for both business and leisure travel.
Ground Transportation
Traveling between the airport and Xi’an city is convenient and well-integrated with the region’s broader transportation network.
Metro
Line 14 of the Xi’an Metro links the airport with the city’s northern railway hub, Xi’an North Railway Station. From there, passengers can transfer to other metro lines or high-speed trains.
Shuttle Buses
Multiple airport shuttle bus routes connect XIY with key locations in Xi’an and surrounding cities. These buses are a cost-effective and reliable option for travelers, especially those with heavy luggage.
Taxis
Taxis are available 24/7 outside each terminal. Fares to central Xi’an typically range from ¥100 to ¥200 depending on traffic and exact destination. Drivers generally accept cash and mobile payments.
Private Transfers and Ride-Hailing
Pre-arranged private cars and ride-hailing services like Didi provide another convenient option for transportation to and from the airport.
Car Rentals
Several car rental agencies have desks in the arrivals halls of Terminals 2 and 3. Domestic and international travelers can rent a car with proper documentation, including a Chinese driving permit or translated license.
Future Development Plans
Xi’an Xianyang International Airport is undergoing significant transformation as part of its long-term expansion strategy to meet future demand and improve the travel experience.
Phase III Expansion
This phase includes the construction of a 700,000-square-meter terminal, three additional runways, and a large-scale integrated transportation hub. Once complete, the airport will be able to handle 83 million passengers and 1 million tons of cargo annually.
Cultural Integration
During construction, over 4,000 ancient tombs were discovered beneath the airport site. Rather than relocating them, authorities opted to preserve them in situ, and a museum is being built on-site to showcase the finds. This integration of ancient history and modern travel infrastructure highlights Xi’an’s unique cultural identity.
Smart Airport Technologies
The airport is investing in digital upgrades, including facial recognition for check-in and boarding, automated baggage handling systems, and AI-driven operational management tools to reduce wait times and improve efficiency.
Sustainability Goals
Environmental sustainability is a growing priority at XIY. Green building principles, energy-saving systems, and eco-friendly public transport integration are being emphasized in all new developments.
Airport City Development
Plans are underway to build an “Airport City” surrounding XIY, including business parks, hotels, conference centers, and residential zones. This will position the airport as a regional economic hub, not just a transportation center.
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