Comprehensive Guide to Xi’an Xianyang International Airport: Transfers, Dining, and More

Hello, travelers! I’m Alex Chen, a passionate independent traveler from China. I love exploring remote corners of the world and sharing tips on how to travel around China on a budget. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Xi’an Xianyang International Airport, including transportation options, terminal facilities, dining, and shopping. I hope this guide will make your journey smoother and more enjoyable!

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Overview of Xi’an Xianyang International Airport

• Airport Code: XIY
• Address: Dijiang Street, Weicheng District, Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province, China
• Distance from Xi’an City Center: Approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles)

Terminal Information

• T1 Terminal:
  • Primarily used by a few domestic airlines.
  • Opened in 1991 with a building area of 21,200 square meters.
• T2 Terminal:
  • Dedicated to domestic flights.
  • Opened in 2003 with a building area of 90,000 square meters.
• T3 Terminal:
  • Serves both international and domestic flights.
  • Opened in 2012 with a building area of 400,000 square meters.

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4 Best Ways to Travel from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport to Xi’an City Center

1. By Metro

The metro station serving Xi’an Xianyang International Airport is named “Airport West (T1/T2/T3 Terminals)”, conveniently located between Terminals T3 and T2.

From T3 Terminal

• Metro Lines: Line 14 → Line 2
• Location: Follow the metro signs to Exit 322 in the Arrival Hall.
• Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:20 PM
• Cost: Starting from 2 RMB, with a maximum fare of 7 RMB.
• Travel Time: Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.

From T2 Terminal

• Metro Lines: Line 14 → Line 2
• Location: Follow the metro signs to Exit 212 in the Arrival Hall.
• Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:20 PM
• Cost: Starting from 2 RMB, with a maximum fare of 7 RMB.
• Travel Time: Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.

How to Buy Metro Tickets

• Ticket Machines or Service Counters: Purchase single-ride tickets with cash, WeChat Pay, or Alipay.
• QR Code Payment: Scan the metro QR code via WeChat or Alipay.
• Card Payment: Only select stations, including Xi’an North Station, Bell Tower, Yongning Gate, and Big Wild Goose Pagoda, accept international credit cards like VISA, MasterCard, and JCB at their service counters.

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2. By Airport Shuttle Bus

The airport shuttle bus is a convenient and cost-effective way to reach Xi’an’s city center. The bus stops are located outside the main terminals.

From T3 Terminal

• Location: Follow signs to Exit 314 in the Arrival Hall.
• Fare: Flat rate of 25 RMB.
• Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 hours.
• Popular Routes:
  • City West Bell Tower Line:
    • Destination: Bell Tower
    • Operating Hours: 8:40 AM – 9:40 PM
    • Frequency: Every 30–40 minutes; departs when full.
  • Rail-Air Transfer Line:
    • Destination: Xi’an High-Speed Rail Station and Xi’an Railway Station.
    • Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
    • Frequency: Every 50 minutes; departs when full.
  • Shaanxi History Museum and Big Wild Goose Pagoda Line:
    • Destinations: Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Tang Paradise, and Shaanxi History Museum.
    • Operating Hours: 9:30 AM – 8:30 PM
    • Frequency: Every 50–60 minutes; departs when full.
  • Night Bus Line 1:
    • Destination: Bell Tower.
    • Operating Hours: 10:20 PM – 1:00 AM (next day).
    • Frequency: Every 20–30 minutes; departs when full.

From T2 Terminal

• Location: Exit 212 in the Arrival Hall.
• Other Details: Same as T3 Terminal.

How to Buy Bus Tickets

• Purchase tickets at ticket windows or machines with cash, WeChat Pay, or Alipay.
• Tickets can also be booked via the official WeChat account.

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3. By Taxi

Taxis are widely available at the airport, but fares vary based on the license plates. It’s recommended to choose taxis with plates starting with “陕A” or “陕U” for a fair price.

• Xi’an Taxis (陕A/陕U):
  • Daytime Base Fare: 8.5 RMB, 2 RMB per kilometer.
  • Nighttime Base Fare (11:00 PM – 6:00 AM): 9.5 RMB, 2.3 RMB per kilometer.
• Xianyang Taxis (陕D):
  • Daytime Base Fare: 8–10 RMB, 1.8–2.4 RMB per kilometer.
  • Nighttime Base Fare: 9–11 RMB, 2.1–2.7 RMB per kilometer.

From T3 Termina

• Location: Comprehensive Transport Hub (GTC), Level 1, outside Door 03.
• Estimated Cost: Around 110 RMB, including toll fees.
• Travel Time: Approximately 50 minutes.

From T2 Terminal

• Location: Arrival Hall Loop, near Door 213.
• Other Details: Same as T3 Terminal.

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4. By Rideshare Services

You can use Alipay or DiDi to book a ride, or pre-book an airport transfer to avoid waiting and possible driver rejections.

• Airport transfer booking: Click here to check round-trip prices to the city center

From T3 Terminal

• Location: Comprehensive Transport Hub (GTC), Level 1. Walk 100 meters straight from Door 03.
• Estimated Cost: Around 75 RMB.
• Travel Time: Approximately 50 minutes.

From T2 Terminal

• Location: Opposite Door C1, 50 meters away.
• Other Details: Same as T3 Terminal.

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4 Best Ways to Travel from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport to the Terracotta Army

From T3 Terminal

1. By Metro

• Route: Line 14 → Line 1 → Line 9 (towards Lintong)
  • Board Line 14 at Airport West Station (near T3 Terminal) → Transfer to Line 1 at Beikezhan (North Railway Station) → Transfer to Line 9 at Fangzhicheng Station, which takes you directly to the Terracotta Army Station.
• Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours.
• Cost: About 12 RMB.
• Recommendation: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who have ample time.

2. By Airport Shuttle Bus

• Route: Airport Shuttle Bus to Bell Tower Station → Bus No. 306 (Tour Bus Line 5) to Terracotta Army.
  • Take the Airport Shuttle Bus (Bell Tower Line) from Exit 314 in T3’s Arrival Hall → Upon reaching Bell Tower, transfer to Bus No. 306 (Tour Bus Line 5), which directly connects to the Terracotta Army.
• Travel Time: Approximately 2.5 hours.
• Cost: 25 RMB for the shuttle bus + 6 RMB for Bus No. 306 = 31 RMB total.
• Recommendation: A cost-effective option but involves a transfer.

3. By Taxi

• Route: Direct taxi ride to the Terracotta Army.
• Cost: Approximately 180–220 RMB (including toll fees).
• Travel Time: About 90 minutes.
• Recommendation: Great for travelers with heavy luggage or those looking for convenience.

4. By Rideshare Services

• Platform: DiDi or Alipay.
• Cost: Approximately 150–180 RMB.
• Travel Time: About 90 minutes.
• Recommendation: Slightly cheaper than traditional taxis with the added benefit of cashless payment.

From T2 Terminal

1. By Metro

• Route: Same as T3 Terminal → Walk about 15 minutes to Airport West Station from T2.
• Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours.
• Cost: About 12 RMB.

2. By Airport Shuttle Bus

• Route: Same as T3 Terminal → Board the Airport Shuttle Bus (Bell Tower Line) at Exit 212 in T2’s Arrival Hall.
• Travel Time: Approximately 2.5 hours.
• Cost: 31 RMB (25 RMB for shuttle + 6 RMB for Bus No. 306).

3. By Taxi

• Cost: Approximately 180–220 RMB (including toll fees).
• Travel Time: About 90 minutes.

4. By Rideshare Services

• Platform: DiDi or Alipay.
• Cost: Approximately 150–180 RMB.
• Travel Time: About 90 minutes.

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4 Best Ways to Travel from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport to Xi’an City Wall/Bell Tower

The Xi’an City Wall is a prominent landmark encircling the historic city center, with the Bell Tower situated right in the middle.

From T3 Terminal

1. By Metro

• Route: Line 14 → Line 2 (towards Nanshaomen)
  • Board Line 14 at Airport West Station (near T3 Terminal) → Transfer to Line 2 at Beikezhan (North Railway Station) → Exit at Bell Tower Station.
• Travel Time: About 1.5 hours.
• Cost: Around 7 RMB.
• Recommendation: A budget-friendly and convenient choice for travelers with light luggage.

2. By Airport Shuttle Bus

• Route: Airport Shuttle Bus (Bell Tower Line).
  • Board the shuttle bus from Exit 314 in T3’s Arrival Hall. It stops directly near the Bell Tower.
• Travel Time: About 1.5 hours.
• Cost: 25 RMB.
• Recommendation: Ideal for those looking for a direct and affordable option without transfers.

3. By Taxi

• Cost: Around 110 RMB (including toll fees).
• Travel Time: Approximately 50 minutes.
• Pickup Point: Comprehensive Transport Hub (GTC), Level 1, outside Door 03.
• Recommendation: A faster and more comfortable option, especially for travelers with heavy luggage.

4. By Rideshare Services

• Cost: Approximately 75 RMB (may vary depending on time and vehicle type).
• Travel Time: About 50 minutes.
• Pickup Point: Comprehensive Transport Hub (GTC), Level 1, outside Door 03.
• Recommendation: Slightly cheaper than taxis and perfect for travelers familiar with cashless payments.

From T2 Terminal

1. By Metro

• Route: Same as T3 Terminal → Walk about 15 minutes to Airport West Station from T2.
• Travel Time: About 1.5 hours.
• Cost: Around 7 RMB.

2. By Airport Shuttle Bus

• Route: Same as T3 Terminal → Board the Airport Shuttle Bus (Bell Tower Line) at Exit 212 in T2’s Arrival Hall.
• Travel Time: About 1.5 hours.
• Cost: 25 RMB.

3. By Taxi

• Cost: Around 110 RMB (including toll fees).
• Travel Time: Approximately 50 minutes.
• Pickup Point: Arrival Hall Loop, near Door 213.

4. By Rideshare Services

• Cost: Approximately 75 RMB.
• Travel Time: About 50 minutes.

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4 Best Ways to Travel from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport to Big Wild Goose Pagoda/Tang Paradise

From T3 Terminal

1. By Metro

• Route: Line 14 → Line 2 (towards Weiqunan) → Line 3 (towards Yuhuazhai)
  • Board Line 14 at Airport West Station (near T3 Terminal) → Transfer to Line 2 at Beikezhan (North Railway Station) → Transfer to Line 3 at Xiaozhai Station, then exit at Big Wild Goose Pagoda Station.
• Travel Time: About 1.5 hours.
• Cost: Around 8 RMB.
• Recommendation: Best for budget travelers who prefer metro convenience.

2. By Airport Shuttle Bus

• Route: Airport Shuttle Bus (Bell Tower Line) → Transfer to a taxi or bus.
  • Take the Airport Shuttle Bus (Bell Tower Line) from Exit 314 in T3 → Upon arrival at Bell Tower, transfer to a taxi (15–20 RMB) or a bus (2 RMB) heading to Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
• Travel Time: About 2 hours.
• Cost: 25 RMB for the shuttle + 2 RMB (bus) or 15–20 RMB (taxi).
• Recommendation: A good option if you don’t mind a transfer.

3. By Taxi

• Cost: Around 120 RMB (including toll fees).
• Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour.
• Pickup Point: Comprehensive Transport Hub (GTC), Level 1, outside Door 03.
• Recommendation: A direct and convenient choice for families or groups.

4. By Rideshare Services

• Cost: Approximately 90–100 RMB (varies by time and vehicle type).
• Travel Time: About 1 hour.
• Pickup Point: Comprehensive Transport Hub (GTC), Level 1, outside Door 03.
• Recommendation: A cost-effective and modern alternative to taxis.

From T2 Terminal

1. By Metro

• Route: Same as T3 Terminal → Walk about 15 minutes to Airport West Station from T2.
• Travel Time: About 1.5 hours.
• Cost: Around 8 RMB.

2. By Airport Shuttle Bus

• Route: Same as T3 Terminal → Board the Airport Shuttle Bus (Bell Tower Line) at Exit 212 in T2 → Transfer at Bell Tower.
• Travel Time: About 2 hours.
• Cost: 25 RMB for the shuttle + 2 RMB (bus) or 15–20 RMB (taxi).

3. By Taxi

• Cost: Around 120 RMB (including toll fees).
• Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour.
• Pickup Point: Arrival Hall Loop, near Door 213.

4. By Rideshare Services

• Cost: Approximately 90–100 RMB.
• Travel Time: About 1 hour.

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4 Best Ways to Travel from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport to Xi’an Railway Station

From T3 Terminal

1. By Metro

• Route: Line 14 → Line 4
  • Board Line 14 at Airport West Station (near T3 Terminal) → Transfer to Line 4 at Beikezhan (North Railway Station) → Exit at Xi’an Railway Station.
• Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 hours.
• Cost: Around 8 RMB.
• Recommendation: A cost-effective option, ideal for travelers with light luggage.

2. By Airport Shuttle Bus

• Route: Air-Rail Transfer Line to Xi’an Railway Station.
  • Board the shuttle bus from Exit 314 in T3’s Arrival Hall, which takes you directly to the railway station.
• Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour.
• Cost: 25 RMB.
• Recommendation: Convenient for travelers who prefer a direct route without transfers.

3. By Taxi

• Cost: Around 100–120 RMB (including toll fees).
• Travel Time: About 50 minutes.
• Pickup Point: Comprehensive Transport Hub (GTC), Level 1, outside Door 03.
• Recommendation: Perfect for families or travelers with heavy luggage.

4. By Rideshare Services

• Cost: Approximately 80–100 RMB (varies depending on time and vehicle type).
• Travel Time: About 50 minutes.
• Pickup Point: Comprehensive Transport Hub (GTC), Level 1, outside Door 03.
• Recommendation: A modern alternative to taxis, offering slightly lower fares with the convenience of cashless payments.

From T2 Terminal

1. By Metro

• Route: Same as T3 Terminal → Walk about 15 minutes to Airport West Station from T2.
• Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 hours.
• Cost: Around 8 RMB.

2. By Airport Shuttle Bus

• Route: Same as T3 Terminal → Board the Air-Rail Transfer Line at Exit 212 in T2’s Arrival Hall.
• Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour.
• Cost: 25 RMB.

3. By Taxi

• Cost: Around 100–120 RMB (including toll fees).
• Travel Time: About 50 minutes.
• Pickup Point: Arrival Hall Loop, near Door 213.

4. By Rideshare Services

• Cost: Approximately 80–100 RMB.
• Travel Time: About 50 minutes.

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International to Domestic Flight Transfers at Xi’an Xianyang International Airport

The international-to-domestic transfer process at Xi’an Xianyang International Airport is straightforward and efficient, ensuring travelers can quickly connect to their next flight. Follow these steps to navigate the transfer smoothly:

Transfer Process

1. Immigration Check
   • Upon arrival at the T3 International Arrivals Hall, proceed to the immigration checkpoint.
   • Submit your passport and visa documents, and complete fingerprint and facial recognition as required.
2. Baggage Claim
   • Retrieve your checked luggage at the designated baggage claim area after completing immigration.
3. Customs Inspection
   • Fill out the customs declaration form if required, and proceed through the customs checkpoint. Random inspections may occur.
4. Domestic Flight Check-in
   • If your baggage isn’t checked through to your domestic destination, head to the domestic check-in counters to recheck your luggage.
   • Follow the airport signs to the domestic departures area and complete your check-in process.
5. Security Screening
   • Present your boarding pass and valid identification at the security checkpoint. Complete the screening to enter the domestic departures lounge.

Additional Tips

• Minimum Connection Time (MCT): Allow at least 2 hours for a smooth transfer.
• Language Assistance: Multilingual support is available at the transfer service desk.
• Baggage Tagging: If your airline offers through-check baggage services, confirm this at your departure airport to save time.

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Domestic to International Flight Transfers at Xi’an Xianyang International Airport

Xi’an Xianyang International Airport provides a seamless process for travelers transferring from domestic to international flights. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Transfer Process

1. Arrival and Transfer Corridor
   • After landing at either T2 or T3, follow the clearly marked transfer signs to reach the international departures area.
2. International Check-in
   • Proceed to the international check-in counters to obtain your boarding pass. If your baggage isn’t checked through to your international destination, recheck your luggage here.
3. Immigration Procedures
   • Present your passport, visa, and other required documents at the immigration checkpoint to complete the exit process.
4. Security Screening
   • Go through security screening as per international flight regulations.
5. Boarding
   • Locate your departure gate based on your boarding pass and confirm your boarding time.

Additional Tips

• Minimum Connection Time (MCT): Allow at least 3 hours for your transfer.
• Baggage Transfer: If your luggage is tagged to your final international destination, confirm this at your departure airport to streamline your transfer.
• Transfer Assistance: Use the airport’s international transfer service desk for multilingual support or additional guidance.

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Guide to Xi’an Xianyang International Airport

Tax Refund Services

International travelers can take advantage of the tax refund service at Xi’an Xianyang International Airport. Here are the key details:

• Eligibility:
  • A single international traveler must have purchased tax-eligible goods worth at least 500 RMB at the same tax-refund shop on the same day.
  • The departure date must be within 90 days of the purchase date.
• Refund Amount:
  • The refund is 11% of the total invoice amount, including VAT, with 10% returned to the traveler.
• Refund Process:
  • Before Security: Customs verification is required. Follow the signs to the customs desk for validation.
  • After Security: Refunds can be claimed at the designated refund counter in the T3 Terminal’s restricted area. Look for airport guidance signs.

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Purchasing a SIM Card

Travelers can conveniently buy SIM cards at the airport to stay connected during their trip.

• Location: International Payment Center in the Arrival Hall of T3 Terminal.
• Plans Available: Choose from 7-day, 15-day, or 30-day packages based on your stay.
• Note: A VPN is required to access Google, Line, and other restricted apps in China.

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Transportation Between Terminals (T2 to T3 and T3 to T2)

• By Foot: The terminals are about 600 meters apart, and walking takes approximately 15–20 minutes.
• By Free Shuttle Bus:
  • Operating Hours: 7:30 AM – 11:30 PM.
  • Frequency: Every 10 minutes.
  • Pickup Points: Follow the terminal signs to locate the shuttle stops.

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Payment App Assistance Counter (International Visitor Payment Center)

To help international travelers use WeChat Pay and Alipay in China, the T3 Terminal has a dedicated payment assistance counter.

• Services Offered:
  • Assistance with downloading and installing WeChat Pay and Alipay.
  • Guidance on linking international bank cards to the apps and enabling payment functionality.
  • Basic usage tutorials and answers to common questions about using these apps.
• Location: International Payment Center in the T3 Arrival Hall.
• Operating Hours: 24/7.

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Dining Options and Hours at Xi’an Xianyang Airport

The airport offers a range of dining options to suit different tastes and preferences.

T3 Terminal (Post-Security)

• Starbucks
  • Location: South concourse and South Overpass of T3 Terminal.
  • Hours: 6:20 AM – 10:30 PM.
  • Cuisine: Coffee and light snacks.
• Ziwu Road Zhang Ji
  • Location: South concourse of T3 Terminal.
  • Hours: 6:20 AM – Last boarding call.
  • Cuisine: Xi’an local specialties.
• Dicos
  • Location: South 1, South 2, and South 3 concourses of T3 Terminal.
  • Hours: 6:20 AM – 10:30 PM.
  • Cuisine: Burgers and fast food.
• Burger King
  • Location: Central Commercial Area of T3 Terminal.
  • Hours: 6:20 AM – 10:30 PM.

T2 Terminal (Post-Security)

• Starbucks
  • Location: Near Gate 10.
  • Hours: 6:20 AM – 10:30 PM.
  • Cuisine: Coffee and light snacks.
• Burger King
  • Location: Near Door 223 in the Departure Hall.
  • Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM.
• Longxing Lou Lanzhou Noodles
  • Location: Opposite Gate 8.
  • Hours: 6:20 AM – Last boarding call.
  • Cuisine: Hand-pulled Lanzhou noodles.

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Duty-Free Shopping Hours

If you’re looking for duty-free shopping, the T3 Terminal offers a great selection.

• Location: International Security Checkpoint, 1st Floor, T3 Terminal.
• Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – End of the last night flight.
• Products Available: Cigarettes, perfumes, cosmetics.

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Baggage Storage Services

The airport provides secure baggage storage facilities, ideal for travelers with layovers or short trips.

• Locations:
  • Departure Hall, T2 Terminal.
  • Near Door 321, T3 Terminal.
• Pricing (based on size):
  • Up to 20cm x 30cm x 40cm: 10 RMB/24 hours.
  • Between 20cm x 30cm x 40cm and 20cm x 30cm x 60cm: 15 RMB/24 hours.
  • Between 20cm x 30cm x 60cm and 20cm x 30cm x 100cm: 20 RMB/24 hours.
  • Above 20cm x 30cm x 100cm: 30 RMB/24 hours.
• Operating Hours: 5:10 AM – 11:00 PM.

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Currency Exchange Services

T3 Terminal offers multiple locations for currency exchange.

• Departure Hall: Counter near Door 322, 6:00 AM – 9:30 PM.
• International Departures (Post-Security): Open according to international flight schedules.
• Arrival Hall: International Payment Center, 8:00 AM – Close of last inbound international flight.

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Free Wi-Fi Access

Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi at the airport.

• Network Name: “Xian Airport Free”.
• Login Requirement: A Chinese mobile phone number is needed to receive a verification code.

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Overnight Stays at the Airport

Yes, overnight stays are possible at Xi’an Xianyang International Airport, both pre- and post-security.

• Recommended Resting Areas:
  • T3 Terminal, pre-security, 2F, G Zone near Door 321.
• Dining Options:
  • T3 Arrival and Departure Halls feature restaurants, most open until 3:00 AM.
  • T2 Terminal Arrival Hall includes a 24/7 convenience store.

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Check-In Deadlines

Be mindful of the check-in deadlines for both domestic and international flights:

• Domestic Flights: Check-in closes 35 minutes before departure.
• International Flights:
  • Standard: 40 minutes before departure.
  • China Eastern, Shanghai Airlines, and United Airlines: 45 minutes before departure.
  • Some airlines may have different policies—check with your airline for details.