The Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport Border-Inspection Station issued its Mid-Autumn advisory early on 24 September, projecting a modest 1,600 cross-border passengers over the three-day break but flagging an unusual one-day surge on 26 September, when 1,120 travellers—mostly returning overseas students—are expected to land within a six-hour window. Although only ten international flights are scheduled during the period, the bunching effect could strain the airport’s limited immigration counters. To mitigate congestion, the station will open all manual booths, extend e-gate operating hours and station bilingual volunteers in the arrivals hall. Foreign travellers are encouraged to file arrival cards online before departure; those without internet access can still complete paper forms but may see longer waits. The advisory is particularly relevant to small and medium-sized exporters in Hebei, many of whom are flying in buyers for on-site product checks ahead of the Canton Fair in October. Logistics managers should allow contingency time for late-night road transfers to Beijing or Tianjin, as taxi and ride-hailing supply in Zhengding can be tight after midnight. Border officials remind passengers that any questions about China’s new Exit-Entry Administration Regulations (Decree No. 841) should be directed to the 12367 hotline rather than frontline officers, so as not to delay processing.
Source: Great Wall Network (Hebei)
