China · Guangzhou
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) Online Check-in
China's third-busiest airport and China Southern's main hub. Two terminals (T1 + T2) — modern, efficient. Major southern China gateway with extensive Asia + Australia network.
Now at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
- Security wait (today, avg) 18 min
- Disruption No reported disruption
- Weather impact Clear, 14 °C
Quick information
Airlines we cover at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport hosts about 60 airlines in total. We have terminal-specific check-in pages for the 1 listed below. Pick yours to see counters, bag-drop, and online check-in details.
How to check in for a flight from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
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Check in online before you leave home
Most airlines open online check-in 24–48 hours before departure. It saves time at the airport and avoids airport-counter fees on low-cost carriers.
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Arrive at the right terminal
CAN has 2 terminal(s). Check your airline's terminal in the table above before you set off.
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Drop off checked baggage
Counters typically open 2 hours before departure and close 40 minutes before. Use self-service bag-drop kiosks to save time.
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Pass security
Liquids must be in a single transparent bag, max 100 ml each. Laptops and large electronics out of bags. Submit your security wait time below to help others.
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Reach your gate on time
Most airlines close the gate 20 minutes before departure. Allow 5–15 minutes to walk from security to the gate.
Tips for Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
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Guangzhou is China's southern hub
CAN is China Southern's home base — extensive network across China + Australia + Africa. Major gateway for Pearl River Delta business travel.
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144-hour transit visa-free
Many nationalities qualify for 144-hour visa-free transit at CAN if onward to a third country. Apply at airport on arrival, valid in Guangdong province.
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Hong Kong connection by HSR
Guangzhou-Hong Kong by high-speed rail (CAN-HKG via Guangzhou South Station): 50 min station-to-station. Cheaper than Cathay HKG-CAN flight + immigration easier.
Popular destinations from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
Frequently asked questions
Which terminal does China Southern use at CAN?
China Southern primarily uses Terminal 2 — the airline's home terminal. T1 serves China Eastern, Air China, and most foreign airlines.
Is CAN a major Africa gateway?
Yes — CAN has extensive African network (Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa direct). Many African business travelers transit Guangzhou for trading.
Do I need a Chinese visa for CAN?
144-hour transit visa-free for many nationalities (UK, US, EU, AU, CA, JP, KR) if onward to a third country. Otherwise, full Chinese visa required.
Official sources
The check-in details on this page are sourced from each airline's website. For terminal layout, opening hours, and ground-side services, see the Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport official site below.
- Wikipedia: Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport — Editorial overview, history, statistics.
- FlightRadar24: CAN live data — Live flight arrivals, departures, and delays.
- gov.uk travel advice — Up-to-date entry requirements and security guidance for China.