How Many Airports in Beijing? A Real Traveler’s Guide

Written and updated by Ruqin
Last updated: April 20, 2026

I still remember landing in Beijing for the first time, staring at my ticket and thinking: Wait… which airport is this again? That moment of confusion is incredibly common. Beijing isn’t like most cities with just one main airport—it has two major international airports, and choosing (or navigating) the right one can shape your entire arrival experience.

The location of the three airports in Beijing ( Google)

Let me walk you through this the way I wish someone had explained it to me.

1. Main Airport in Beijing

Beijing Capital International Airport

This is the “old” main airport—but don’t let that fool you. It’s still one of the busiest airports in the world.

What it feels like (from experience):
PEK can feel massive and slightly overwhelming, especially Terminal 3. The signage is good, but distances are long. After a long-haul flight, expect a bit of walking.

Beijing Capital International Airport

Key facts:

Located about 25 km northeast of central Beijing
Handles many international and domestic flights
Main hub for Air China

How to get to the city:

Airport Express Train → Fastest, connects to subway (around 20–30 min)
Taxi → ~45–60 min depending on traffic
Airport shuttle buses → Budget-friendly but slower

2. Largest and Most Advanced Airport in Beijing

Daxing International Airport

This one is completely different. The first time I walked into Daxing, it felt more like a sci-fi movie set than an airport.

What it feels like:
Bright, open, and surprisingly easy to navigate. Despite its size, the layout is efficient—you won’t walk nearly as much as in PEK.

Daxing International Airport

Key facts:

Opened in 2019, ultra-modern design by Zaha Hadid
Located about 46 km south of central Beijing
Major hub for China Southern Airlines

How to get to the city:

Daxing Airport Express / High-speed rail → ~20 minutes to downtown
Taxi → ~60–90 minutes
Airport buses → Various routes

3. Beijing Xijiao Airport

Beijing Xijiao Airport, primarily a military airbase, occasionally operates charter flights. Located in the Haidian District, it is approximately 19.75 miles from Beijing Capital International Airport and 8 miles from the city center.

Its unique positioning makes it a strategic point for specific aviation activities. The airport features one runway, catering to specialized flight operations and contributing to Beijing’s comprehensive aviation network.

4. Is Beijing a BJS or PEK?

Beijing, often referred to by its airport codes, has two primary codes: BJS and PEK. BJS represents the metropolitan area encompassing all of Beijing’s airports.

In contrast, PEK specifically refers to Beijing Capital International Airport, derived from Beijing’s former Romanized name, Peking.

Similarly, Beijing Daxing International Airport is denoted as PKX. The distance between PEK and PKX is about 65 km, with a road distance of 80.6 km.

Understanding these codes is essential for travelers navigating flights and airport transfers in Beijing. The transition of flight operations from PEK to the newer PKX is a significant development in Beijing’s aviation landscape, reflecting the city’s growth and modernization.

5. From Beijing Capital Airport to Downtown

Travelers have multiple options to reach downtown Beijing from Beijing Capital International Airport. The most efficient way is the Airport Express subway line, linking the airport to the city’s subway network.

Airport shuttles offer an economical alternative, connecting various city locations. Taxis provide a convenient door-to-door service, while the light train caters to destinations along specific routes. These options ensure a smooth transition from the airport to the heart of Beijing.

6. From Beijing Daxing Airport to Downtown

Reaching downtown Beijing from Daxing International Airport is facilitated by several transport modes. TheBeijing subway is a swift option, with dedicated lines connecting the airport to central Beijing.

Public buses serve various routes, offering budget-friendly travel. Taxis are available for direct, personalized trips, ensuring comfort and convenience. These transportation choices make accessing Beijing’s core from Daxing Airport easy and efficient.

Beijing’s airports, each with unique characteristics and roles, form a comprehensive air travel network catering to millions of travelers.

Understanding the specifics of Beijing Capital International, Daxing International, Nanyuan, and Xijiao airports enhances travel experiences, ensuring smooth journeys in and out of China’s dynamic capital.

About the Author

Ruqin is the founder of Ruqintravel.com and has spent more than four decades working in China’s travel industry. Drawing on hands-on experience in cities like Beijing and Hangzhou, he personally researches and updates each guide to help international travelers navigate China with confidence.