Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, a major transportation hub in southern China, continues to operate as one of the world’s busiest airports despite ongoing disruptions to air travel across the country. The airport, serving the Pearl River Delta region, is a critical gateway for both domestic and international flights, and a primary hub for China Southern Airlines.
Located approximately 28 kilometers (17 miles) north of downtown Guangzhou, the airport complex features two main terminals – Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2) – connected by an inter-terminal subway and free shuttle buses. Passengers are strongly advised to confirm their departure terminal with their airline, as the terminals are significantly distanced and using the incorrect one can cause substantial delays.
Terminal 1, the older of the two, primarily serves China Southern Airlines and its SkyTeam partners, including Delta, Air France, and KLM, for both domestic and international routes. It comprises multiple concourses (A and B) linked by automated people movers and long corridors. Terminal 2, which opened in 2018, is a state-of-the-art facility and the new primary base for China Southern’s operations, handling the majority of its international flights and a significant number of domestic routes. Other airlines utilizing T2 include China Eastern, XiamenAir, and various international carriers. The terminal is noted for its modern design, including a large indoor garden.
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) is not immune to the broader challenges facing Chinese aviation. Recent reports indicate widespread flight cancellations affecting key cities including Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu. While the specific causes of these disruptions haven’t been detailed, they underscore the fragility of air travel networks even in a country with extensive infrastructure like China. The airport handled 83,587,749 passengers in 2025, and 2,030,522.7 metric tonnes of cargo in 2023, with 456,104 aircraft movements.
The airport’s importance extends beyond passenger traffic. It is also a significant cargo hub, processing over two million metric tonnes of freight annually. This makes it a vital link in global supply chains, particularly for goods manufactured in the Pearl River Delta, a major economic zone in China.
China Southern Airlines, a SkyTeam member, is the dominant carrier at Guangzhou Baiyun. The airline offers extensive services for its passengers, and the airport is designed to facilitate efficient connections for travelers continuing their journeys elsewhere. Other airlines operating at the airport include FedEx Express, 9 Air, Hainan Airlines, and Shenzhen Airlines, with China Eastern Airlines serving as a focus city.
Accessibility to and from the airport is well-established. Passengers can reach the city center via the Guangzhou Metro, with dedicated stations at each terminal. The airport also provides a range of passenger services, including premium lounges and various transportation options between terminals.
The airport’s development reflects China’s broader investment in infrastructure to support its economic growth and increasing international connectivity. Built to international airline hub standards, Guangzhou Baiyun is designed to handle a high volume of flights efficiently. Its strategic location and modern facilities position it as a key player in the global aviation network.
Travelers passing through Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport can expect a range of amenities, including shopping and dining options, as well as free Wi-Fi access. The airport aims to provide a seamless and convenient travel experience, despite the potential for disruptions that can affect air travel globally. For those planning onward travel within China, exploring travel information for other airports, such as Qingdao or Guiyang, can help ensure smooth connections.
The airport’s coordinates are 23°23′33″N 113°17′56″E, and it operates under China Standard Time (UTC+08:00). It is owned by Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Co. Ltd. And operated by the Guangdong Airport Authority.
