Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) is one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, located in China’s capital city, Beijing. Known for its impressive architecture and extensive network of domestic and international flights, PEK is a major hub for travelers heading to or from China. Here’s everything you need to know to make your journey through this airport as smooth as possible.
Location and Terminals
Beijing Capital International Airport is about 32 kilometers (20 miles) northeast of central Beijing. The airport has three terminals:
- Terminal 1: Primarily serves domestic flights for certain Chinese airlines, including Hainan Airlines.
- Terminal 2: Handles both domestic and international flights and serves several major airlines, including China Eastern and China Southern.
- Terminal 3: Known for its size and modern architecture, Terminal 3 is one of the largest airport terminals in the world. It serves both domestic and international flights and is the main terminal for Air China, Beijing’s flag carrier, and many international airlines.
If you’re connecting between terminals, shuttle buses operate regularly to make transit easy.
Flights and Airlines
Beijing Capital is a major global hub and offers flights to destinations across Asia, Europe, the Americas, and beyond. Air China uses PEK as its primary hub, and you’ll find many other international airlines operating here, including Delta, Lufthansa, Emirates, and more. With a wide range of domestic flights, PEK is also a convenient base for exploring other parts of China.
Getting to and from the Airport
- Airport Express Train: The Airport Express line connects PEK to downtown Beijing, making stops at Dongzhimen and Sanyuanqiao stations. This is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to get to the city, taking about 20-30 minutes.
- Taxi: Taxis are available at all terminals, and the ride to central Beijing takes roughly 40-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Be prepared for potential language barriers, and it’s helpful to have your destination written in Chinese.
- Airport Buses: Airport shuttle buses operate several lines to different parts of Beijing, including major hotels and train stations. This is a budget-friendly option for travelers with multiple routes to choose from.
- Didi (Chinese Uber): Didi is widely used in China and offers ride-sharing options from the airport. You can book directly through the Didi app, though you may need to enter your destination in Chinese.
Facilities and Amenities
Beijing Capital International Airport has extensive amenities, making it a comfortable place to spend time:
- Dining: You’ll find a variety of dining options, including Chinese and Western restaurants, fast food, and cafes. Terminal 3, in particular, offers a wide range of restaurants and coffee shops.
- Shopping: The airport has numerous shops, from luxury brands and duty-free stores to local souvenir shops, perfect for last-minute gift shopping or browsing.
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, though you may need a Chinese phone number to access it. Some travelers use a temporary SIM card or portable Wi-Fi device for internet access.
- Lounge Access: Several lounges are available for premium travelers or those who purchase access, including Air China lounges and other VIP lounges in Terminals 2 and 3.
- Sleeping Pods and Hotels: For travelers with long layovers, PEK offers sleeping pods, and there are several hotels within or near the airport for convenient rest options.
Tips for Travelers
- Plan for Security and Customs: PEK is busy, so leave extra time for security checks and passport control, especially during peak hours.
- Stay Informed About Visa Requirements: China has a transit visa waiver for certain nationalities if you’re staying for less than 144 hours and meeting specific requirements, so be sure to check if you’re eligible.
- Download Offline Maps and Translate Apps: English isn’t widely spoken in China, so having an offline map and a translation app like Google Translate or Pleco can make navigating the airport and city much easier.
In Summary
Beijing Capital International Airport is a massive and well-equipped airport that efficiently handles millions of travelers each year. From world-class facilities and a variety of transportation options to a convenient transit visa policy, PEK makes for a smooth gateway to Beijing and beyond.