Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK)
Haikou Meilan International Airport serves Haikou and the surrounding region. ~23 million (2024). Located 25 km southeast of Haikou city centre, it handles domestic and international flights with 2 terminals. Hainan Airlines, China Southern, China Eastern, Air China
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Terminal layout
Haikou Meilan International Airport has 2 terminals: T1 (domestic flights) and T2 (domestic and international flights, opened 2018). Both are connected by a free shuttle bus. Hainan Airlines and most Star Alliance carriers use T2.2 terminals. Check your boarding pass for terminal and gate information, and allow sufficient time for transfers if connecting between flights.
Terminal info
T2 opened in 2018 with tropical architectural design and serves domestic and international flights. T1 handles additional domestic capacity. The high-speed rail station is located in the airport basement.
- Check your boarding pass for the correct terminal
- Free shuttle or walking connections between terminals
- Allow 20–30 minutes for terminal transfers
- Each terminal has check-in, security, and gates
Transfer between terminals
A free shuttle bus connects T1 and T2 every 5 minutes. The walk between terminals takes approximately 10–15 minutes via a covered walkway. Follow the green transfer signs.
Navigation tips
The airport is 25 km southeast of Haikou city centre. The high-speed rail Meilan Station is located directly in the airport basement — unique among Chinese airports. Airport shuttle buses run to the city centre.
- Information desks: Located in each terminal arrivals and departures hall
- Airport app: Many airports offer apps with real-time gate info
- Ask staff: Airport ambassadors wear distinctive uniforms
- Free Wi-Fi: Available for checking flight status online
Stay connected
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout all terminals. No registration required for basic access. Premium high-speed options available for purchase.
Getting to & from the airport
Transport options connecting HAK to the city centre and surrounding areas. Prices and durations are approximate — check current fares before travel.
| Mode | Details | Duration | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High-speed Rail | Meilan Station (basement) to Sanya, Wenchang | 1.5–2.5h to Sanya | CNY 80–120 | Most convenient for island travel |
| Airport Shuttle | To Civil Aviation Hotel at Mingzhu Square | 35 min | CNY 15 | Runs from first to last flight |
| Taxi / Didi | To Haikou city centre | 30–40 min | CNY 50–80 | Fixed-price taxis available |
| Bus | City buses to major locations | Varies | CNY 5–10 | Multiple routes |
Planning your journey
Rush-hour traffic can significantly extend travel times. For early morning flights, pre-book a taxi or rideshare. Public transport may have reduced service late at night — check schedules in advance.
Emergency Numbers
24/7 emergency services in China
Customs & Duty-Free
Arrival regulations for China
Mobile Connectivity
Local operators & SIM cards in China
China Unicom
Connection times
Recommended minimum connection times when transferring between flights at Haikou Meilan.
Transfer tips
Allow extra time during peak periods. Follow the transfer signs and ask Airport Ambassadors if you need assistance.
Lounges
Haikou Meilan has several premium lounges airside. Hainan Airlines Lounge, Business Lounge — priority pass accepted. All lounges offer comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments, and free Wi-Fi.
Passenger tips by type
Practical advice tailored to different traveller profiles passing through Haikou Meilan International Airport.
First-time visitors
- Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic and 3 hours before international flights.
- Download the airline app for real-time gate and boarding updates.
- Keep your boarding pass and ID accessible — you'll need them at security and the gate.
- This airport has 2 terminals — check your boarding pass and allow 20–30 minutes for transfers.
Transit & connections
- Check if your connection requires terminal transfer — allow extra time.
- Stay airside if possible to avoid re-clearing security.
- Look for flight connection desks if your incoming flight is delayed.
Families with children
- Family lanes are usually available at security — look for signs.
- Baby changing facilities are located throughout the terminal.
- Bring snacks and entertainment for children during waits.
Business travellers
- Priority security lanes may be available with business-class tickets or elite status.
- Lounge access included with many premium tickets — check your boarding pass.
- Power outlets and USB charging are available at most gates and seating areas.
Airlines & routes
HAK carriers
International destinations
- Asia: Tokyo, Seoul, Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Dubai
- Europe: London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Rome
- North America: New York, Los Angeles, Vancouver, Toronto
- Domestic: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu
Frequently asked questions
For international flights, arrive at least 2–3 hours before departure. Domestic flights typically require 1–2 hours. Allow extra time during peak travel periods and holidays.
Yes, Haikou Meilan International Airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal buildings. Look for the airport network on your device and connect without registration for basic access.
Haikou Meilan International Airport operates 2 terminals. Check your boarding pass for terminal information. Free shuttle buses and moving walkways connect the terminals — allow at least 20–30 minutes for transfers.
Yes. China Mobile and China Unicom have counters in the international arrivals hall. A typical tourist package costs CNY 80–150 for 10–30 GB. You must show your passport to purchase. WeChat is essential for payments and transport in China.
Yes. Most Chinese airports offer free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. You may need to authenticate via SMS (Chinese number) or use your passport at a kiosk. The connection is free and available on all floors.
Yes. Sleep capsules are available inside most major Chinese airports for CNY 60–100/hour. Lounges also offer comfortable seating for long layovers. Some airports have hourly hotels inside or near the terminal.