Southwest China's high-altitude gateway connecting Asia and beyond.
Opened
2012
Location
Kunming, China
Kunming Changshui International Airport is the primary commercial airport serving Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province in southwest China. It opened in 2012, replacing the older Wujiaba Airport, and has rapidly grown into one of China's busiest airports by passenger traffic.
Situated at an elevation of approximately 2,103 meters (6,900 feet) above sea level, Changshui is one of the highest major airports in China. Its strategic location makes it a key hub for flights connecting mainland China with Southeast Asia, South Asia, and destinations across the wider Asia-Pacific region.
The airport is a primary hub for China Eastern Airlines and Yunnan Airlines, and handles tens of millions of passengers annually. It plays a central role in Yunnan Province's ambitions to serve as a bridgehead for China's connections with South and Southeast Asia.
Terminals
The airport features a single large integrated terminal building designed to handle both domestic and international passengers.
Getting to & from
The airport is connected to central Kunming by the Airport Rail Express (metro Line 6), as well as highway shuttle buses and taxis.
Airlines here
China Eastern Airlines and its subsidiary Yunnan Airlines use Changshui as a major hub, with additional services from Air China, China Southern, and numerous international carriers.
Notable facts
- ›Replaced the former Wujiaba Airport, which was located closer to the city center, when it opened in June 2012.
- ›At approximately 2,103 meters elevation, it is one of the highest major commercial airports in China.
- ›The airport serves as a key node in China's 'bridgehead' strategy for connectivity with Southeast and South Asia.
- ›Changshui handled over 40 million passengers annually before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traffic.
- ›The terminal building's design was intended to evoke imagery associated with Yunnan's natural and cultural landscape.
This profile is provided for general information only. Details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airport's official website before acting on them.
