China Unveils New Pet Terminal at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is poised to become a haven for travelling pet owners with the upcoming launch of its brand-new, dedicated pet terminal this May. This groundbreaking facility, spanning over 2,000 square metres, marks a significant step forward in creating a more animal-friendly travel environment within China and promises to streamline the often-complex process of flying with furry companions.

Gone are the days of navigating disparate services and lengthy procedures. The new terminal will offer a comprehensive, one-stop shop for all pet travel needs. From initial animal quarantine and ticket booking to convenient pet consignment, check-in, and even a dedicated pet hotel, the aim is to provide a seamless and stress-free experience for both passengers and their beloved animals. Du Jie, the deputy manager of the airport’s safety and quality department, highlighted this, stating that the pet terminal is the first dedicated facility of its kind in the country, reflecting Guangzhou’s commitment to refined and thoughtful urban governance. Internal trials are already underway, hinting at the imminent opening.

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A first for China: One-stop pet travel hub

This initiative comes at a time when travelling with pets is increasingly popular. Airport data reveals that pet owners constitute a substantial 25 percent of their total travellers, significantly higher than the national average. Recognising this growing demand, Guangzhou Airport has invested in creating a truly pet-centric space.

Overseeing the terminal’s operations, Ma Yingying explained that a user-friendly online reservation and full-process service system is now available via WeChat mini-programmes such as ‘Airport Pass’ and ‘Baiyun Pet Terminal’. Through these platforms, owners can effortlessly book essential services tailored to their pet’s specific needs, including check-in, quarantine processing, and even the purchase of suitable travel cages. Airport pick-up arrangements can also be made digitally. This innovative digital approach is set to drastically reduce the preparation time for pet flights, potentially cutting it down from a week to a mere two days.

The terminal already offers services for select domestic flights, including China Southern’s pet-in-cabin route between Guangzhou and Shanghai. Dedicated check-in counters allow travellers and their furry companions to check in together and enjoy tailored waiting areas equipped with massage chairs, refreshments, and pet comfort zones.

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Luxury lodgings: Introducing the “star-rated” pet hotel

Beyond the essential logistics, the pet terminal is designed with the comfort and well-being of animals in mind. A “star-rated” pet hotel will be able to accommodate between 17 and 30 pets, featuring themed rooms carefully designed for the specific needs of cats and dogs. Pampering amenities abound, including cosy sofas, cat scratching boards, and fresh food supply stations. First-time pet flyers will receive extra special attention, with calming essential oils and access to temperature- and humidity-controlled oxygen cabins to ease any travel anxieties.

Upon arrival, pets can further benefit from dry cleaning and grooming services, helping them recover from their journey. For owners seeking a little pre-flight relaxation, a VIP lounge will be available, complete with lint rollers, massage chairs, and refreshments.

The pet hotel itself promises high-quality boarding, with individual pet records, stringent hygiene protocols, fresh food and water provided twice daily, dedicated outdoor playtime, professional grooming services, 24-hour purified air, continuous surveillance, real-time air quality monitoring, and even video call access for owners to check in on their furry friends. The first phase of the hotel includes six themed sunny cat rooms, four independent dog rooms, and seven intelligent pet warehouses, ensuring a comfortable and secure environment for every animal.

Yin Shujun, a doctoral student at the South China University of Technology and a dog owner, enthusiastically welcomes the new facility. “This terminal greatly facilitates the travel needs of dog lovers like me,” he said, expressing his intention to utilise the services for future trips.

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A game-changer for pet owners

With its comprehensive services and thoughtful amenities, Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport’s new pet terminal is setting a new standard for animal-friendly air travel in China, promising a smoother and more pleasant journey for both pets and their owners.