When traveling to Chengdu, your arrival time at the airport depends on whether you are flying domestically or internationally and which terminal you are using. For domestic flights at Tianfu International Airport (TFU), check-in typically closes 45 minutes before departure, but it is highly recommended to arrive at least 2 hours early to account for security and the large size of the terminals. For international flights, it is standard practice to arrive 3 hours before your scheduled departure to allow ample time for health quarantine, customs, and immigration inspections. Travelers should also account for the significant distance from the city center, as driving to TFU can take 70 to 90 minutes depending on traffic. If you are a transit passenger, it is recommended to plan your return to the airport at least 3 hours before your next flight and to allow a 30 to 45-minute buffer for potential traffic delays. In general, leaving early is the best way to ensure a stress-free experience at either Chengdu Shuangliu or Tianfu International Airport.