Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU)

TFU in 20 seconds

Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (IATA: TFU, ICAO: ZUTF) is a major international aviation hub serving Chengdu, the capital of China's Sichuan province. As the city's second international airport, its opening made Chengdu the third city in mainland China to operate two primary civil airports, after Beijing and Shanghai. It serves as a primary hub for Air China and Sichuan Airlines, significantly expanding air traffic capacity for Western China.

Mostly positive

What travelers love

Modern and Spacious Terminals: The airport is described as huge, modern, open, and well-organized, with impressive architecture. Terminals 1 and 2 are connected by pedestrian corridors and designed to minimize walking distances.
Cleanliness and Facilities: High praise is given for the airport's cleanliness, including its modern and well-maintained bathrooms. Ample seating, many with charging points, and water stations (hot and cold) are available. The airport is certified with a 5-Star Regional Airport Rating for terminal comfort and cleanliness.
Efficient Security and Immigration (Generally): Many travelers report efficient security and immigration processes, noting clear signage in both Chinese and English, and a good number of open counters. Security queues are often around 20 minutes maximum.
Good Lounges: Lounges at TFU are generally rated well for efficiency and cleanliness.
Straightforward Transfers: The airport facilitates straightforward transfers, and a visa-free entry program for up to 240 hours is available for international transfers.

Common complaints

Distance from City Center: A significant and frequent complaint is the airport's considerable distance from downtown Chengdu, often requiring a 70-minute drive or more, which can be inconvenient and costly for taxis.
Limited Shopping and Dining Options: Several reviews mention a scarcity of shops, restaurants, and souvenir options, with some areas feeling empty or having inflated prices for available goods.
Inconsistent Immigration/Taxi Wait Times: While security can be efficient, passport control upon arrival can take between 30 to 60 minutes. Taxi queues can also be lengthy, sometimes exceeding 45 minutes, especially during peak evening hours.
Staff Interaction and Automated Systems: Some travelers have reported negative interactions with staff, including passport officers and service personnel. Additionally, some automated finger-scanning machines at arrival halls have been noted to malfunction.

Bottom line: Chengdu Tianfu International Airport is a modern and generally well-regarded facility, particularly praised for its design and upkeep, making for a pleasant experience once inside. However, travelers should be prepared for its remote location and potentially limited options for shopping and dining, and allocate ample time for transport to and from the city, and for immigration procedures.

AirportRoutes · updated Apr 29, 2026

Write a tip / review

Live · updated daily

New & changed departures

11 changes to TFU's schedule in the last 90 days.

+11 net routes in 12 months

Lucky Air begins TFU → Bazhong (Enyang) on the Boeing 737-800. New route

First seen Aug 5, 2026 · detected Aug 10

Zhejiang Loong begins TFU → Jiaxing Nanhu. New route

First seen Jul 28, 2026 · detected Aug 3

Tianjin Airlines begins TFU → Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture. New route