10 hour layover Chengdu International Airport

Question

I am booking Airchina flights, Singapore to Korla, Xinjiang, which has a 10 hour transit at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport . 1st flight arrives at T1 and 2nd flight departs at T2. I am wondering if our baggage will be checked through? Also, wonder if we are allowed to exit the Terminal to check into a nearby airport hotel for some rest. I will appreciate if anyone can advise? Thanks!

Answer

For your 10-hour layover at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport with Air China flights, here are the details regarding baggage and exiting the terminal:

Baggage Handling:

If both your flights are booked under the same ticket/reservation and operated by Air China, your checked baggage is typically checked through to your final destination (Korla). You would not need to collect it at Chengdu.
If your flights are booked separately or with different PNRs, you will likely need to collect your baggage at T1 and check in again at T2 for your next flight. Confirm this with Air China during booking or check-in.

Exiting the Airport:

China generally requires a visa for foreign nationals to leave the airport. However, many nationalities are eligible for a 24-hour visa-free transit at Chengdu. Check if your nationality qualifies for this transit visa exemption.
If eligible, you can leave the airport to check into a nearby airport hotel for rest. Ensure you factor in travel time to T2 and allow enough time for security checks upon re-entry.
If you are not eligible for the visa-free transit, you must remain within the transit area or airport hotel connected to the terminal.

Practical Tips:

Confirm your baggage policy with Air China directly to avoid surprises.
Check the 24-hour transit visa eligibility for your nationality well in advance.
Plan your time carefully, considering terminal transfer, security checks, and transport to the hotel.
Keep your passport, boarding passes, and flight itinerary handy for immigration and security checks.

In summary, if your flights are on the same ticket and you qualify for 24-hour visa-free transit, you should be able to leave the airport and rest in a nearby hotel. Otherwise, you will need to stay within the transit area or the airport facilities.