Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is a massive and modern facility, impressively designed with sleek architecture and state-of-the-art amenities. However, the airport’s sheer size can be daunting, especially for elderly travelers or those with young children. Navigating through the vast terminals can be a challenge, and this is something travelers should be prepared for.

For those transiting through Guangzhou on their way to another destination, it is crucial to allow ample time between flights. I recommend booking flights with at least a 2 to 3-hour layover. This is particularly important because China Southern Airlines, the main carrier at this airport, is notorious for frequent delays. Even though these delays are somewhat expected, the lack of effective communication between the airline and the airport staff can add unnecessary stress for travelers trying to make their connecting flights. In our case, we had a 1.5-hour layover, but our inbound flight was delayed by 30 minutes. The situation quickly descended into chaos as passengers scrambled to make their connections.

Moreover, the transit process at Baiyun Airport is cumbersome and inefficient. Despite not leaving the terminal, transit passengers are required to pass through multiple checkpoints, including a quarantine inspection, airline counter for ticket verification, security screening, and finally, immigration control. These layers of security checks, combined with long queues, create a stressful experience, particularly for those with tight connections. On a positive note, I did notice an improvement in the attitude and helpfulness of the airport staff compared to previous visits. Both ground staff and immigration officers were noticeably more friendly and eager to assist, which was a welcome change.

For travelers planning a layover, it is essential to be prepared. I suggest filling out your Arrival Card while still on the plane to save time during the quarantine inspection. Keep items like lighters, liquids, and batteries easily accessible, as these will need to be removed during security screening.

On our return, we had a day to spare and decided to explore Guangzhou. The airport offers a convenient visa-on-arrival service for transiting passengers, which allows up to 72 hours of stay. The process was straightforward but requires some preparation. After disembarking, follow the signs for transit, but instead, head to the visa-on-arrival counter. Before approaching the counter, make sure to fill out the Arrival and Departure Card, which can be obtained from airline staff. The required documents include your passport, inbound flight ticket, outbound flight ticket, and the Arrival and Departure Card. If you are flying with China Southern Airlines and have a layover of more than 6 hours but less than 30 hours, you may be eligible for a complimentary hotel stay provided by the airline, which can simplify your stay.

One area that could use improvement is the duty-free shopping experience. While the shops offer a wide range of products, it was disappointing to find that many staff members had very limited English skills. This language barrier can make it difficult for international travelers to ask questions or make purchases, which is something the airport management should consider addressing.

In summary, while Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is an impressive and modern facility, it is essential to plan for potential delays and long transit times. With proper preparation, the experience can be manageable, though not without its challenges.