Liangping Airport

ChongqingPeople's Republic of China 30° N · 107° E Updated Oct 2026

Liangping Airport, historically known as Liangshan Airfield, is a site of profound historical and regional significance located in the northeastern part of…

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About Liangping Airport

Liangping Airport, formerly known as Liangshan Airfield, is a historic site in northeastern Chongqing Municipality. It is about 150 km northeast of Chongqing’s urban core, west of Liangping (historically Liangshan), near China National Highway 318 and the Dazhou-Wanzhou railway (Wikipedia: Liangping, Chongqing; AirportGuide.com). Its mountainous, remote location made it suitable for military and aviation purposes.

The airport’s IATA code is LIA and its ICAO code is ZULP. It no longer operates regular commercial flights, but remains a symbolic landmark associated with wartime history, regional development, and aviation heritage.

History

World War II and military use

During World War II, Liangping (Liangshan) Airfield served as a base for the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) Fourteenth Air Force during the China Defensive Campaign (1942–1945) (Nouahsark: Liangping Airport). Its roles included:

  • C-47 Skytrain aircraft delivered supplies and troops to support Allied and Chinese forces.
  • Unarmed P-38 Lightning aircraft conducted photo-reconnaissance over Japanese-occupied areas.
  • The 426th Night Fighter Squadron, flying P-61 Black Widow interceptors, helped protect Chongqing from air raids.

American forces withdrew after the war ended in 1945, but the airfield’s wartime role cemented its historical importance.

Civil aviation and closure

Liangping Airport began commercial service on July 14, 1988, connecting Liangping and Wanzhou with Chengdu, Wuhan, Xi’an, Chongqing, and Guangzhou (Nouahsark: Liangping Airport). It adapted former military infrastructure for civilian use and became a regional gateway for northeastern Chongqing (Prokerala: Liangping Airport). By the early 1990s, it ranked 54th among China’s 110 airports, helping integrate the region into the national transport network and support local economic growth.

With the expansion of air travel and the opening of facilities such as Wanzhou Wuqiao Airport, all civil flights were transferred by May 2003 (Nouahsark: Liangping Airport). The airport has remained closed to commercial flights since then; its future use depends on local development plans.

Its history as both a World War II military hub and a civil aviation gateway reflects Chongqing’s strategic importance and the region’s connections to national and international networks (Springer).

What to see

The airport site

The airport has historical value, but it does not offer official visitor services, ticketing, or set visiting hours. Visitors may be able to explore the grounds informally or view the site from outside, unless access is restricted. Check with local tourism offices or authorities about access and any occasional guided visits. Museums in Chongqing may also have exhibitions on Liangping’s aviation history.

Liangping District

Liangping is among Chongqing’s oldest regions and preserves Bayu culture through its architecture, crafts, and festivals. Traditional bamboo weaving is a local craft; workshops are open daily and free to visit, while purchases support local artisans.

  • Sea of Bamboo (Baili Zhuhai) Spanning over 100 km, this area is suited to eco-tours and photography. It is open 8:00 AM–6:00 PM, with entrance around 30 RMB.
  • Wetlands and plains These offer seasonal scenery and rural guesthouse experiences.
  • Ruifeng Pavilion Offers panoramic views. It is open 7:30 AM–7:00 PM, and tickets cost 20 RMB.
  • Local cuisine Pomelos, bamboo shoot dishes, and market foods are among the local options.

Liangping promotes ecotourism intended to protect bamboo forests and wetlands while supporting local communities. Bike rentals are available for local travel. Most major sites are wheelchair-friendly, but access in rural areas should be confirmed in advance.

Practical visiting information

Hours, tickets, and facilities

  • Airport hours There are no official visiting hours; the site can be viewed from outside unless otherwise restricted.
  • Airport tickets No ticket is required, as the airport is non-operational.
  • Facilities The terminal is closed and visitor amenities are minimal. Dining and accommodation are available in Liangping city.

Getting there and getting around

The airport area is accessible by local roads from Liangping town. Liangping is connected to Chongqing by road and rail, and the district can also be reached by train and bus from Chongqing.

Taxis and ride-hailing services are available in Liangping. Local buses connect Liangping with surrounding areas but may be limited. Car rental services are available; a Chinese driver’s license is required (Discover-Airport.com).

Payment and communication

Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted and support international cards (Reddit TravelChina). English is limited; translation apps and addresses written in Chinese can be helpful.

Accommodation

Liangping has hotels and guesthouses. Options are available in Liangping town and near major attractions. Booking platforms such as Trip.com list accommodation at various budgets (Trip.com).

Tips

Use official taxis or DiDi Chuxing for transport, and avoid unlicensed taxis (TravelChina.Tips). Liangping and the airport site are generally safe, with a visible security presence; secure valuables.

The best times to visit Liangping District are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is mild and festivals take place. For the latest information, download the Audiala app and follow reputable sources and local tourism updates.

Nearby places

Chongqing’s historical and cultural attractions include:

  • Ci Qi Kou Ancient Town Known for well-preserved architecture and local crafts.
  • Dazu Rock Carvings A UNESCO-listed site featuring Buddhist sculptures.
  • Three Gorges Museum Covers Chongqing’s history and culture.

The wider region also has traditional villages, bamboo forests, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Local operators offer guided tours to historical and natural attractions.

Frequently asked questions

Is Liangping Airport open to the public?
It has no scheduled flights or official tours. Visitors may be able to view the site, but should confirm access with local authorities.

How do I reach Liangping District?
Travel by road or rail from central Chongqing. The airport is west of Liangping town.

Are there guided tours?
No tours are scheduled for the airport. Local operators offer tours of historical and natural attractions.

What is the best time to visit?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is mild and festivals take place.