Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) is the main hub linking Xi’an to other parts of China, also it’s an international hub linking Xi’an with foreign destinations. With four terminals and convenient ground transportation — taxis, shuttles, and rail, travelers can move around easily. In this guide, you’ll find how to get to the airport, non-stop routes from US to Xi’an, and nearby hotel recommendations.
Xi’an Airport Code
Xi’an Xianyang International Airport is the only airport in Xi’an.
The IATA code is XIY and the ICAO code is ZLXY. Xi’an Xianyang International Airport located ~35 kilometers northwest of Xi’an city, serves the whole Guanzhong area and Northwest China.
Airlines and travel platforms usually recognize the XIY code. Once you know this code, searching flights, tagging luggages, and finding airport signage will become much easier.
384349 booked
How to Get from Xi’an Airport to the City
Option | Cost | Travel Time | Availability |
Taxi | ¥80–120 | 35–60 mins | 24/7 at taxi ranks |
Airport Shuttle Bus | ¥15–25 | ~45 mins | 06:30–22:00 (every 15–30 mins) |
High-Speed Train | ~¥20–30 (train + shuttle) | ~10 mins + transfer time | Shuttle to Xi’an North Station first |
Car | Depending on gas fees | Flexible | Rental counters |
What Cities Fly Direct to Xi’an?
Main Chinese hubs include Beijing (PEK), Shanghai (PVG), or Guangzhou (CAN), airlines include China Eastern, Air China, or China Southern.
You can also transit across Europe or the Middle East—Istanbul (IST), Doha (DOH), or London (LHR). Airlines like Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways provide multiple flights daily to Xi’an.
If you want to visit another Chinese city like Beijing or Shanghai before heading to Xi’an, you can book multi-city international flights. Use the layover time at the most to explore the cities before your flight.
How Many Terminals in Xi’an Airport?
Xi’an Xianyang International Airport has four terminals: T1, T2, T3, and the newest terminal T5.
Terminal | Coverage | Features | Amenities |
T1 | Domestic arrivals only | Basic, functional design | Few shops/dining options. |
T2 | Domestic + International | Shorter security lines than other terminals. | Mid-range shopping/dining |
T3 | Domestic + International | Modern layout and premium services. | High-end shopping, dining, airline lounges. |
T5 (New) | Domestic + International | Additional gates | Sharing with T3 during expansion. |
Dos and Don’ts at Xi’an Airport
What You Should Do
- Plan to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights.
- Use the fast-track assistance. Airlines offer meet-and-greet options which can save more than 30 minutes.
- Use charging stations near the gates, especially in T3. Fully charged electronics before you’re on board.
- Buy authentic snacks such as Bi Yun Shao pastries, turmeric tea, or Shaanxi-style noodles at the airport.
- Use airport lounges. Each terminal has premium lounges from China Eastern and China Southern.
- Download WeChat Pay or Alipay;global credit cards sometimes will not be accepted.
- Double-check signage. Even though there is English signage, arrival and departure areas sometimes overlap.
What You Should Avoid
- Relying on credit cards and cash only.
- Leaving baggage or personal items unattended.
- Failing to follow duty‑free allowances.
- Ignoring terminal announcement.
- Shopping at peak times.
Xi’an Airport Nearby Hotels
We recommend the following hotels near Xi’an airport:
Frequently Asked Questions about Xi’an Airport
How many terminals does XIY have?
Xi’an’s airport includes four operational terminals: T1, T2, T3, and T5.What is the fastest way to reach city center from Xi’an Airport?
A taxi typically takes 40 minutes outside peak hours. For efficiency and cost savings, a shuttle-bus-plus-metro route might be equally fast, especially during rush hour.Can I rely on credit card payments in Xi’an Airport?
Major merchants accept Visa or Mastercard, but smaller vendors may require Alipay or WeChat Pay. Carry some cash as backup.Does Xi’an Airport offer services for travelers with disabilities?
Wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and dedicated help desks are available. Declare any special requirements when booking your flight or transfer.