Chengdu Tianfu Airport Transport Guide
Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU), located about 63 km southeast of Chengdu’s city center, is well-connected to the city center through various modes of transportation, including the metro, airport buses, high-speed trains, and taxis.
- Metro: Take Line 18 express train for 35 minutes to Chengdu South Railway Station for approximately 10 yuan, then transfer for your final destination.
- Airport Bus: Operates 24/7, every 30 minutes, costing 15 – 25 yuan. Routes include line 1 to Chunxi Road, line 2 to Jinsha Hub Station, line 3 to Zoo Station, line 4 to Chengdu East Station, and line 5 to Shuangliu Airport (Tianfu Airport Bus Lines).
- High-speed Train: A fast option to Chengdu East Station in 26-28 minutes, with fares between 20-30 yuan (Tianfu Airport to Chengdu East by train).
- Taxi: Direct rides to the city center are available, covering over 50 km for an estimated 150-250 yuan.
Metro Line 18: Tianfu Airport – South Railway Station
Tianfu Airport is well-connected to the urban area (Chengdu South Station) via Metro Line 18. This line offers both express and regular trains, providing flexibility depending on your schedule.
Chengdu metro network map: www.chengdurail.com/ckfw/xlt.htm
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1. Express Train (Through)
If you’re in a hurry or prefer a quicker journey, the express train on Metro Line 18 is your best option, as it only stops at 3 stations.
- Stops: The express train only stops at three stations: South Railway Station – Terminal 1 & 2 of Tianfu Airport – Tianfu Airport North
- Travel Time: South Railway Station – Tianfu Airport takes 33-35 mins.
- Distinguishing Express and Regular Trains: Express and regular trains are on different platforms. Clear signs (marked as Express Train Station) and schedules are available at the station to guide passengers.
| Direction | Train Type | Travel Time | Departure Times |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tianfu Airport to South Railway Station | Express Train | 35 mins | 05:58, 07:03, 08:03, 09:03, 10:03, 11:03, 12:03, 13:03, 14:03, 15:03, 16:03, 17:03, 18:03, 19:03, 20:03, 21:03, 22:03, 23:03 |
| South Railway Station to Tianfu Airport | Express Train | 35 mins | 05:55, 07:00, 08:00, 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00, 19:00, 20:00, 21:00, 22:00, 23:00 |
The depature times above are for reference only and subject to changes.
2. Regular Line (Local line)
For those who prefer more flexibility or need to stop at intermediate stations, the regular train on Metro Line 18 is a suitable choice.
- Travel Time: The journey takes approximately 55 minutes.
- Ticket Price: The fare is 10 RMB, based on distance.
- Schedule: The regular line operates from 06:00 to 23:03.
Stops on Regular Line on Line 18
| No. | Station names CN | Station names EN |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 火车南站 | South Railway Station |
| 2 | 孵化园 | Incubation Park |
| 3 | 锦城广场东 | Jincheng Plaza East |
| 4 | 世纪城 | Century City |
| 5 | 海昌路 | Haichang Road |
| 6 | 西博城 | Western China Intl Expo City |
| 7 | 兴隆 | Xinglong |
| 8 | 天府新站 | Tianfu Station |
| 9 | 三岔 | Sancha |
| 10 | 福田 | Futian |
| 11 | 天府机场1号2号航站楼 | Tianfu Airport Terminal 1/2 |
| 12 | 天府机场北 | Tianfu Airport North |
Other Transportation Options
Airport Buses
Airport buses provide a 24-hour service with departures every 30 minutes. The fare is 15 RMB. There are five routes available:
- Airport Bus Line 1: Tianfu Airport to Chunxi Road
- Airport Bus Line 2: Tianfu Airport to Jinsha Hub Station
- Airport Bus Line 3: Tianfu Airport to Chengdu Zoo Station
- Airport Bus Line 4: Tianfu Airport to Chengdu East Railway Station
- Airport Bus Line 5: Tianfu Airport to Shuangliu Airport
High-Speed Trains
High-speed trains offer another fast and reliable option. The journey from Tianfu International Airport (Tianfujichang Station) to Chengdu East Railway Station takes about 26-28 minutes, with fares ranging from 20 to 30 RMB.
Taxis
For those who prefer a direct route, taxis are available. The distance to the city center is over 50 kilometers, and the fare ranges from 150 to 250 RMB, depending on traffic conditions.
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