Cheap flights to Chengdu from across Australia

Ever dreamed of seeing a giant panda? Chengdu is a non-negotiable. The Sichuan capital is home to one of the world’s largest sanctuaries, with over 80 giant pandas lounging in the shade. But after you’ve oohed and aahed, there’s much more to see here. 

Think wandering between Tang Dynasty temples and bamboo groves. Steaming hot pot on Chunxi Road. Playing mahjong outside teahouses that haven’t changed in decades. And when you need a break from the buzz? Hike up Mount Qingcheng, look upon the Leshan Giant Buddha, or walk in Jiuzhaigou’s alpine valleys.

How long is the flight to Chengdu

• Sydney to Chengdu: 10 hours, 45 minutes
• Melbourne to Chengdu: 11 hours
• Adelaide to Chengdu: 14 hours, 50 minutes
• Brisbane to Chengdu: 13 hours, 40 minutes
• Perth to Chengdu: 12 hours, 30 minutes

Which airlines fly direct to Chengdu

There are only direct flights available with one airline, but you can get connecting flights with various others if you have a preferred carrier to fly.

• Sichuan Airlines: Flies non-stop from Melbourne and Sydney to Chengdu Tianfu International (TFU). Expect a modern Airbus fleet, including a panda-themed A350.

Where you can fly direct to Chengdu from

• Melbourne: Sichuan Airlines
• Sydney: Sichuan Airlines

When is the cheapest time to fly to Chengdu

Looking for the best deal on flights to Chengdu? Aim for shoulder season. May, plus September through November, deliver that sweet spot, with mild temperatures, fewer crowds and reasonable prices. Early spring (March) also works well. 

Just steer clear of January’s Chinese New Year surge, July and August’s school holiday spike, and Golden Week. At this time, fares soar and queues do too.

Where is the airport in Chengdu?

Chengdu has two international airports. Which one you land at can shape your arrival.

Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) is the shiny new hub, about 50 km from the city. Options to get from there to Chengdu East Station include the high-speed train, which takes 40 minutes, Line 18 of the metro whisks you to South Railway in 37, or there’s airport buses and taxis.

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) is the older base, sitting just 16 km from downtown. Metro Line 10, taxis or local buses get you to the city in under half an hour.

Visa/Passport requirements when flying to Chengdu

Australian citizens no longer need to secure a visa in advance to enter mainland China. We were recently added to the country’s visa waiver program, applicable for stays 30 days or less. 

If you want to stay longer, though, you will need a visa. Apply through the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre. But remember, you need to factor in a multiple-day processing time.

How early to arrive at the airport

Arrive at least 3 hours before an international departure for Chengdu to clear security and check in with ease.

Ready to picnic with the pandas? Book activities and hotels in Chengdu with Traveloka today.