Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

About Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

Beijing Capital International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world and the primary international gateway to China's capital. Located about 32 kilometres northeast of Beijing city centre, it connects China to destinations across Asia, Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Africa. Operated by Capital Airports Holding Company, it has three terminals with Terminal 3 being one of the largest airport buildings in the world by floor area.

Beijing Airport Details - Beijing Capital International Airport IATA, Address and Pin Code

• Official Name: Beijing Capital International Airport
• IATA Code: PEK
• Address: Capital Airport Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
• Airport Pin Code: 100621
• Distance from Beijing City Centre: Approximately 32 km
• Phone Number: +86 10 9510 0000
• Old Name: Beijing Airport (informally used prior to expansion)

How Many Airports in Beijing?

Beijing is served by two major commercial airports. Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) handles a large share of established international and domestic traffic. Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX), opened in 2019, was built to expand the city's aviation capacity. Both operate simultaneously serving different airlines and routes.

How Many Terminals in Beijing Airport?

Beijing Capital International Airport has three terminals. Terminal 1 handles select domestic flights. Terminal 2 serves domestic routes and some international operations. Terminal 3 is the largest and most modern, handling the majority of international flights including long-haul routes. Air China primarily operates from Terminal 3.

Distance Between Beijing Airport Terminals

Terminals 2 and 3 are connected by a free shuttle bus taking approximately 10 minutes. Terminal 1 requires a separate shuttle. Passengers transiting between terminals should allow at least 30 to 45 minutes to complete the transfer, particularly during peak travel periods.

How Many Runways in Beijing Airport?

Beijing Capital International Airport has three runways, two running parallel in a north-south orientation and a third supporting additional capacity. All three handle wide-body aircraft including the Boeing 747 and Airbus A380, supporting the airport's high volume of daily domestic and international operations.

Visa and Immigration for Beijing Airport

China operates its own visa system and Indian passport holders must obtain a Chinese visa before travelling to Beijing. Here is what Indian travellers need to know:

• Visa Requirement: Indian citizens must apply for a Chinese visa from the Chinese Embassy or an authorised visa application centre in India before departure.
• Visa on Arrival: Not available for Indian passport holders.
• 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit: Indian travellers transiting through Beijing to a third country may be eligible for a 144-hour visa-free stay, subject to specific eligibility conditions.
• Key Documents: Valid passport, visa application form, passport photographs, proof of onward travel, hotel booking, and financial documents.
• Immigration at PEK: International passengers clear immigration at Terminal 3. Fingerprinting and photograph capture are part of the standard entry process.

Apply at least 4 to 6 weeks before travel as processing times can vary by application centre and visa category.

Beijing Airport Lounges and Facilities

• Air China First and Business Class Lounges: Located in Terminal 3, offering dining, beverages, shower facilities, and Wi-Fi for eligible passengers.
• Priority Pass Lounges: Several lounges across terminals accept Priority Pass and other eligible membership cards.
• Wi-Fi: Free throughout all three terminals.
• Dining and Retail: Restaurants serving Chinese and international cuisine alongside duty-free shops across all terminals.
• Medical Centre: On-site health services for emergencies and basic medical assistance.

Things to Do in Beijing Airport

• Browse duty-free shops for Chinese tea, silk products, Peking opera masks, and traditional handicrafts.
• Dine at restaurants offering northern Chinese cuisine including Peking duck dishes within the terminal.
• Pick up Beijing-themed souvenirs and locally made gifts before departure.
• Relax in the spacious seating areas of Terminal 3, one of the most architecturally striking airport buildings in the world.

Places to Visit Near Beijing Airport

• Great Wall of China at Mutianyu: One of the most accessible sections of the Great Wall, approximately 70 kilometres from the airport and an unmissable landmark.
• Summer Palace: An imperial garden and palace complex about 40 kilometres from the airport with scenic lakeside views and historic architecture.
• Beijing City Centre: Reachable in about 30 minutes via the Airport Express train, with highlights including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Temple of Heaven.

FAQs About Beijing Airport - Beijing Capital International Airport

What is the Official Name of Beijing Airport?

The official name is Beijing Capital International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world and the primary gateway to China's capital.

What is the IATA Code for Beijing Capital International Airport?

The IATA code is PEK.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Beijing Airport?

Terminals 1 and 2 handle domestic routes and select international operations. Terminal 3 handles the majority of international and long-haul flights.

Where is Beijing Airport Located?

The airport is in Chaoyang District, Beijing, approximately 32 kilometres northeast of the city centre.

When Was Beijing Airport Built?

Beijing Capital International Airport originally opened in 1958. Terminal 3 opened in 2008 ahead of the Beijing Summer Olympics.

Is PEK Open 24 Hours?

Yes, PEK operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, though certain retail and dining services may have limited hours during late-night periods.

How Far is Beijing Capital International Airport from Beijing City Center?

The airport is approximately 32 kilometres from the city centre. The Airport Express train connects the airport to Beijing in around 30 minutes.

What Airlines Operate from PEK?

Airlines operating from PEK include Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, Hainan Airlines, Lufthansa, British Airways, Emirates, Air France, and Singapore Airlines, among others.

Are There Lounges at Beijing Airport?

Yes, PEK has multiple lounges including Air China's First and Business Class Lounges in Terminal 3 and Priority Pass accessible lounges across terminals, based on airline, ticket class, or lounge membership programme.