Shihezi Huayuan Airport (SHF)

Shihezi Huayuan Airport (IATA: SHF, ICAO: ZWHZ) is the primary airport serving the city of Shihezi, a significant agricultural and industrial hub in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China. As a modern regional facility, it provides a vital air link connecting this part of northern Xinjiang with major cities across the country, supporting business, tourism, and local development.

Opened to the public on December 26, 2015, Huayuan Airport is a relatively new development built to replace the city's older, dual-use airfield. Its construction was a key step in improving the region's transportation infrastructure. Classified as a 4C airport, its single runway and modern facilities are designed to handle mainline narrow-body aircraft such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 series, accommodating the growing demand for air travel in the area.

The airport is conveniently located approximately 17 kilometers (11 miles) southwest of Shihezi's city center. Travelers can typically reach the terminal in 20 to 30 minutes by car. The most common modes of transport are taxis, ride-sharing services, and a dedicated airport shuttle bus that connects the airport with key downtown locations. The bus schedule is often aligned with flight arrivals and departures.

Operations at Shihezi Huayuan Airport are exclusively domestic. It facilitates direct flights to and from major Chinese hubs, including Beijing, Chengdu, and Zhengzhou, as well as regional connections to Ürümqi. Airlines operating scheduled services frequently include major carriers like Air China and China Southern Airlines. As a smaller regional airport, it handles a modest but growing number of passengers, with annual traffic figures in the hundreds of thousands.

The airport features a single, clean, and efficient terminal building. Inside, passengers will find essential amenities including check-in desks, security screening, and a comfortable departure lounge with ample seating. While facilities are not extensive, they include a small selection of food and beverage outlets for snacks and drinks, as well as a few retail stores offering travel essentials and local products.

For a smooth travel experience, passengers are advised to arrive 90 minutes to two hours before their scheduled departure. Given the airport's compact size, navigating from check-in to the gate is a quick and straightforward process. It is recommended to verify the airport shuttle bus schedule in advance or arrange for a taxi, particularly for flights departing early in the morning or arriving late at night.