Book Flights to Chongqing
Book flights to Chongqing with Alternative Airlines
Last updated: February 2026
Chongqing is China's fastest-growing megacity, and flights are now easier to book than ever. Alternative Airlines searches 600+ airlines to find flights to Chongqing (CKG) from across the globe, with flexible payment options including Buy Now Pay Later.
Secure your seat early ✈️
Book flights to Chongqing today and lock in the current fare before prices climb. Give yourself time to plan, without rushing to find funds or missing out on a good deal.
Pay later, explore sooner 😎
Split the cost of your flight into smaller payments that suit your budget. That means more to spend on hot pot by the Jialing River, late-night street food and skyline views from Hongya Cave.
Flexible ways to pay 🔒
Choose from leading Buy Now Pay Later providers worldwide when you book with Alternative Airlines. Get quick approval, clear terms and the confidence to plan your trip to Chongqing on your terms.
Flying to Chongqing
Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG) sits around 21 km northeast of the city centre. It's one of China's busiest airports, handling over 50 million passengers in 2025 - a record. In that same year, international traffic grew by nearly 29%!
The airport runs four parallel runways and operates from Terminal 3, following major expansion works. Terminal 3B - the world's largest single satellite hall by construction area - opened in April 2025.
All domestic and international flights currently use Terminal 3 (T3A for international, T3B for domestic).
Over 45 airlines serve Chongqing Jiangbei across 140+ non-stop routes in 25 countries. Three airlines are headquartered here: West Air, Chongqing Airlines and China Express.
How to find cheap flights to Chongqing
A few simple habits make a real difference to the price you pay:
- Book early. Aim for 2-6 months ahead for international flights. For Chinese New Year or Golden Week, book 5-7 months out as fares can spike fast.
- Fly in the right months. September, January (outside Chinese New Year), March and November are consistently the cheapest. Summer and national holidays push prices up 30-200%.
- Travel midweek. Tuesday to Thursday flights are typically 13-20% cheaper than weekend departures.
- Pay over time. Alternative Airlines offers Buy Now Pay Later through 20+ providers, including Afterpay, Klarna, Affirm and Atome, many at 0% interest. Lock in today's fare and spread the cost!
Why not start your search now? Simply enter Chongqing as your destination in our search form and hit the search button!
Popular airlines and flight routes
Major airlines flying to Chongqing ✈️
- Air China is the largest operator at Chongqing Jiangbei, with around 420+ weekly departures. Routes include Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Dubai, Singapore, Seoul and Budapest.
- Hainan Airlines is the dominant long-haul international operator. Direct routes include Paris, Rome, Milan, Madrid, Brussels, and Seattle.
- China Eastern connects Chongqing to Shanghai, Beijing, Nanjing, and Kunming with high-frequency service.
- Sichuan Airlines flies to Bangkok, Phuket, Kuala Lumpur, Taipei and Singapore alongside a broad domestic network.
- Qatar Airways serves Chongqing year-round from Doha, with expanded codeshare coverage to 15+ European and Middle Eastern cities via a deal launched in October 2025.
- Cathay Pacific connects Hong Kong to Chongqing multiple times weekly.
- Singapore Airlines offers seasonal direct service from Singapore.
- Asiana Airlines flies from Seoul Incheon 5-7 times weekly.
- AirAsia X serves the Kuala Lumpur route directly.
Budget carriers on Chongqing routes include Spring Airlines, West Air, Thai AirAsia and Thai Lion Air.
Direct vs connecting flights
Direct flights to Chongqing from Europe run from London (with Tianjin Airlines, 2x weekly seasonal), Paris, Rome, Milan, Madrid, Brussels and Budapest - all operated by Hainan Airlines. From the US, the only year-round direct route is Seattle via Hainan Airlines.
For everyone else, a one-stop connection is the way to go. The most popular hubs are:
- Beijing (Air China)
- Doha (Qatar Airways)
- Guangzhou (China Southern)
- Shanghai (China Eastern)
- Hong Kong (Cathay Pacific)
Each offers good onward frequency to Chongqing so layover times are rarely excessive.
Connecting flights from London typically add 3-6 hours to the journey, bringing total travel times to 14-17 hours. From the US East Coast, expect 19-21 hours via Shanghai or Hong Kong. It sounds long, but a well-chosen layover hub, particularly Doha or Hong Kong, can make the stopover part of the experience rather than a drag.
Typical flight duration and costs
Flight times from major hubs 🕑
- From London, the direct Tianjin Airlines flight takes around 11 hours. Connecting flights via Beijing or Doha add 3-6 hours, bringing total journey times to 14-17 hours.
- From New York, connecting flights via Shanghai on China Eastern take around 19 hours. Via Hong Kong on Cathay Pacific, expect around 20h 35min.
- From Los Angeles, the fastest connection routes through Seattle on Alaska + Hainan Airlines in approximately 18h 55min. Via Shanghai on China Eastern takes around 19h 10min.
- From Sydney, Tianjin Airlines offers a seasonal direct flight at around 11h 10min. One-stop options via Guangzhou or Singapore take 14-16 hours.
- From Singapore, direct flights take around 5 hours. From Kuala Lumpur, expect around 4h 45min direct.
Business class flights to Chongqing
Business class options to Chongqing include:
- Qatar Airways Qsuites via Doha
- Air China business class via Beijing
- Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong
- Singapore Airlines direct from Singapore
CKG's business facilities include fast-track immigration, Plaza Premium lounges with a 22-person meeting room and airline lounges with showers and conference space.
Alternative Airlines searches business class fares across all these airlines, with Buy Now Pay Later options available on premium cabins too.
Arriving at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport
Transport to the city centre 🚕
- Metro Line 10 is the quickest and cheapest option. Take Line 10 to Hongtudi Station, transfer to Line 6 toward Tea Garden, and exit at Xiaoshizi for Jiefangbei (city centre). Total journey is around 40-50 minutes, costing just ¥5-6 (about $1). The metro runs approximately 6:30 AM to 11:23 PM.
- Airport Express Bus K01 runs directly to Jiefangbei for ¥15, taking 50-70 minutes. This is the best late-night option, running until 30 minutes after the last flight lands.
- Taxis to the city centre cost ¥70-100 and take 30-40 minutes in normal traffic.
- Didi (China's ride-hailing app) is widely available with an English interface and built-in translation. Fares are comparable to taxis. There's a designated Didi pick-up zone at the airport.
Facilities at Chongqing Airport
Lounges 🛋️
Plaza Premium lounges operate across Terminal 3 at Pier E (domestic), Pier H (international departures) and a landside location with a 22-person meeting room.
You can enter with a Priority Pass, LoungeKey, DragonPass, or simply walk-in at around ¥200. Air China, China Southern and an International Lounge at Concourse H also offer business facilities.
Wi-Fi 🛜
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport on the “CKG-Free-WiFi” network. If you do not have a Chinese mobile number, you can use one of the self-service token machines located around the terminal. Simply scan your passport to receive a login code.
Connection speeds are generally reliable for messaging, browsing and checking travel plans, although a VPN may be required to access certain international websites.
SIM cards 📱
If you prefer mobile data, China Mobile, China Unicom and China Telecom have counters in the arrivals hall. Tourist SIM packages typically cost between ¥100 and ¥200, depending on data allowance and validity.
Many travellers choose to buy an eSIM before departure through providers such as Airalo. This can save time on arrival and let you connect as soon as you land in Chongqing.
Currency 💴
Bank of China counters and ATMs are located near Gate 9 on the first floor and operate 24 hours a day. If you need cash, ATMs that accept Visa, Mastercard and UnionPay cards are usually the most convenient option.
In many cases, withdrawing cash from an ATM offers better exchange rates than using a staffed currency exchange counter. It is still worth checking any fees from your home bank before travelling.
Family facilities 👨🏾👩🏻👧🏽👦🏽
Terminal 3 is family-friendly, with dedicated children’s play areas that include slides and games to help younger travellers burn off energy before a flight. Baby care rooms and family restrooms are available throughout the terminal for added comfort and privacy.
If you have a long wait, sleep capsules are located near domestic arrivals and Gates F23 to F26, offering a quiet space to rest between flights.
Luggage storage 🧳
Short-term luggage storage is available at the airport, typically costing between ¥18 and ¥40 per day depending on the size of your bag.
This can be useful if you have a long layover and want to explore Chongqing without carrying heavy luggage.
Best time to visit Chongqing
Weather and seasons ☀️
- The best weather for visiting Chongqing falls in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), with temperatures between 15-28°C. These periods also align with lower airfares outside the holiday windows, making them the best times to fly overall.
- Summer (July-August) turns Chongqing into one of China's "Three Furnace Cities," with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C. Plan indoor and evening activities if visiting then.
- Winter (December-February) is mild at 6-12°C with frequent fog, making it ideal for hot springs and off-season pricing.
Key events affecting flights and hotels 🗓️
- Chinese New Year - Late Jan-mid Feb
- Qingming Festival - Early April
- Labor Day - 1-5 May
- Dragon Boat Festival - June
- National Day Golden Week - 1-7 October
Other events worth knowing: the Lantern Festival (3 March 2026), the Chongqing Hot Pot Festival in autumn, and the "Night" International Light Art Season running December through March, which draws 10 million+ visitors over three months.
Top things to do in Chongqing
Chongqing is a city that feels built in layers. Skyscrapers rise from cliffs, trains run through buildings and old alleyways sit beside neon-lit malls. These are the sights that define it.
Hongya Cave (Hongyadong)
Hongya Cave is Chongqing’s most visited landmark. This 13-storey complex clings to a cliff above the Jialing River, designed in traditional stilt-house style. Inside, you’ll find snack stalls, souvenir shops and restaurants spread across multiple levels.
Visit after 8 PM when the lanterns light up the façade, creating the glowing night view that sparked comparisons to Spirited Away.
Liziba Monorail Station
Liziba Station is where Metro Line 2 passes directly through the eighth floor of a residential building. There’s a dedicated viewing platform outside, making it easy to watch and film the train as it glides through.
The spectacle has drawn more than 17 million Instagram views and remains one of the city’s most photographed spots.
Ciqikou Ancient Town
Ciqikou dates back over 1,000 years to the Song Dynasty. Its narrow lanes are lined with Ming and Qing-era architecture, teahouses and traditional craft shops.
Entry is free, and it’s one of the best places to try local snacks and pick up small souvenirs.
Jiefangbei CBD and Kuixinglou
Jiefangbei is Chongqing’s commercial heart, packed with shopping malls, restaurants and high-rise towers. The area showcases the city’s famously complex, multi-level layout.
Nearby Kuixinglou has gone viral for buildings where what looks like the ground floor is actually the 34th storey, highlighting Chongqing’s dramatic elevation changes.
Yangtze River Cableway
For a quick river crossing with a view, take the Yangtze River Cableway. A one-way ticket costs around ¥20. The ride only lasts a few minutes but offers sweeping views of the skyline and riverbanks.
Chongqing hotpot
Food is part of the attraction here. Chongqing reportedly has 26,991 hotpot restaurants, making it the city’s signature dish.
The classic version uses beef tallow, dried chilies and Sichuan peppercorns in a nine-grid copper pot. If you’re new to the spice level, ask for a yuanyang pot with one mild and one spicy side.
Day trips and UNESCO sites near Chongqing
Chongqing also works well as a base for exploring southwest China. Several major heritage sites sit within easy reach.
Dazu Rock Carvings
Located 95 to 105 km west of the city, the Dazu Rock Carvings are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
More than 50,000 Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian figures were carved into cliffs between the 9th and 13th centuries. Allow a full day to explore. Tickets cost around ¥135.
Wulong Karst
About 190 km southeast of Chongqing, Wulong Karst is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site known for its vast natural bridges and dramatic limestone landscapes.
It includes Asia’s largest natural bridge cluster and served as a filming location for Transformers: Age of Extinction.
Chengdu
Chengdu is just 1.5 hours away by high-speed train, with fares starting at around $16. Many travellers combine both cities in one trip.
Booking an open-jaw flight between Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG) and Chengdu Tianfu or Shuangliu (CTU) can sometimes produce better combined fares and give you more flexibility.
Post-arrival essentials
Mobile payments 📱
China runs on mobile payments - over 80% of transactions use QR codes. Set up Alipay and WeChat Pay before you leave home. Both now accept international Visa and Mastercard directly. It's also wise to carry ¥500-1,000 cash as backup.
Internet access 📶
Google, Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram and YouTube are blocked in China. Download a VPN before you arrive - VPN websites are blocked once you're in the country. ExpressVPN, NordVPN and Astrill VPN are popular choices. Some eSIMs route traffic through Hong Kong and work as built-in VPNs.
Essential apps to download before you go 🗺️
- WeChat - messaging, payments, and mini-programs for almost everything
- Alipay - payments, ride-hailing, transit, and ticket booking
- Didi - ride-hailing with an English interface and driver translation
- Amap (Gaode Maps) - far more accurate than Google or Apple Maps in China
- Trip.com - trains, flights, and hotels with an English interface
- Pleco - the best Chinese-English dictionary app
Local customs 🍜
- Tipping is not expected and can cause confusion
- Don't drink tap water - bottled water costs ¥2-5
- Use both hands when exchanging business cards or gifts
- At hotpot restaurants, "bù là" (不辣) means "not spicy"
- Emergency numbers to note: Police 110, Ambulance 120, Fire 119
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to fly to Chongqing?
It depends on your nationality. As of February 2026, citizens of 48 countries, including the UK, France, Germany, Australia and Japan, can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days.
US citizens still need a visa but qualify for the 240-hour visa-free transit when passing through to a third country. The visa-free policy runs through 31 December 2026.
What is the 240-hour visa-free transit?
Citizens of 55 countries transiting through China to a different third country can stay up to 10 days without a visa.
Apply at the immigration counter on arrival at CKG with your passport and confirmed onward ticket. Your origin and destination must be different countries.
How far in advance should I book flights to Chongqing?
Book international flights 2-6 months ahead. For peak periods like Chinese New Year or Golden Week, aim for 5-7 months out. Domestic flights within China should be booked 4+ weeks ahead.
When are the cheapest flights to Chongqing?
September, January (outside Chinese New Year), March and November consistently offer the lowest fares. Fly on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday for an extra 13-20% saving.
Is Chongqing safe?
Yes. Chongqing has low violent crime rates and is generally safe for visitors. Take normal city precautions. Watch your belongings in busy tourist areas and on public transport. Use metered taxis or book through Didi. The city is very hilly, so wear comfortable shoes with good grip. Tap water is not safe to drink, so stick to bottled or boiled water.
Are there direct flights to Chongqing from the UK?
Tianjin Airlines operates a seasonal direct service from London Heathrow, taking around 11 hours and running twice weekly. Outside that schedule, one-stop connections via Beijing, Doha or Guangzhou are widely available.
Can I use my credit card in Chongqing?
International cards work at major hotels, airports and large chains. Most daily transactions in Chongqing require WeChat Pay or Alipay. Both apps now accept foreign Visa and Mastercard, so we recommend setting them up before you travel.
What baggage allowance should I expect?
Full-service airlines allow 1-2 checked bags of 23 kg on international routes. Budget carriers like Spring Airlines and West Air typically include no free checked baggage. Carry-on limits are strict at 7 kg. Pre-purchase extra baggage online where possible.
Why book flights to Chongqing with Alternative Airlines?
Alternative Airlines searches 600+ airlines to find flights to Chongqing, including all major Chinese carriers. Flights can be paid for in over 40 ways, including Buy Now Pay Later options from Afterpay, Klarna, Affirm, Zip and PayPal Credit. Many plans are available at 0% interest.
Chongqing flights are typically 10-20% cheaper than comparable routes to Beijing or Shanghai. During Golden Week, the gap can reach 30-50%.
With visa-free access now extended to 48 nationalities, and inbound arrivals growing 183.6% year-on-year, there's never been a better time to search!
Start searching for cheap flights to Chongqing today. Lock in the price now and spread the cost with Buy Now Pay Later.