Travelling to Chengdu Tianfu International Airport is now faster and more convenient thanks to the Metro Line 18 express service. The hourly express train connects Tianfu Airport with Chengdu South Railway Station in approximately 33 minutes, while regular Metro Line 18 services continue to operate throughout the day with additional stops for passengers travelling across the city.
Metro Line 18 generally operates from around 6:00 am until 11:30 pm, although exact departure times may vary depending on the station and service.
👉 Please check the updated Express Line 18 schedule below:
Chengdu Tianfu Int’l Airport (TFU)
Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) is Chengdu’s primary international airport and the main gateway for most international flights. Since international operations were transferred from Shuangliu International Airport in 2023, Tianfu Airport has become one of western China’s busiest aviation hubs.
Located in Chengdu’s east, Tianfu International Airport opened in 2021. It is approximately 50 kilometres from downtown. Passengers can use private transport or public options such as Chengdu Metro Line 18 or the Tianfu Airport Bus to travel between the city and the airport.
However, there are two drawbacks. First, the commute to the airport can be long. Second, there is no railway station at the airport, which limits travel options to other cities in Sichuan province.
Therefore, travelers should allow extra travel time and arrive at least two hours before their flight. This ensures enough time to complete Customs, Immigration, and check-in procedures.
Getting to and from Tianfu Airport
Several transportation options are available. These include taxis, buses, and car services. Depending on traffic, trips to downtown Chengdu can take around 1 hour and 10 minutes.
The regular Metro Line 18 runs daily every 8 minutes between the airport and Chengdu South Railway Station.
In addition, the new express line operates every hour.
Travel Times from Key Locations:
Downtown (Tianfu Square): ~50 km. Around 1h10m by car, or 1–1.5h by Metro Lines 1 + 18.
Shuangliu Airport: ~50 km. 1h by car, or 1.5h by Metro Lines 10 + 9 + 18.
Chengdu Panda Base: ~80 km. 1h10–20m by car, or 2–2.5h by metro and bus. Airport Bus Line 2 takes ~1h.
East Railway Station: ~42 km. 50m by car, or 1h20m via Metro Lines 7 + 18.
South Railway Station: ~60 km. 50m by car, or 33m–1h via Metro Line 18.
🔗 Click here for more information about the three bus lines to and from TFU.
Also, visit our complete guide to Chengdu Tianfu International Airport or explore other public transport options across Chengdu before your journey.
Overall, the Metro Line 18 express service offers one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between Chengdu South Railway Station and Tianfu Airport. Whether you are visiting Chengdu or catching an international flight, the express metro provides a reliable, affordable and efficient transport option.
