Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK)

Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK) maintains a relatively strict smoking policy, particularly within its terminals after security checkpoints. For travelers who wish to smoke, the primary and most reliable option is to do so in the designated outdoor smoking areas located outside the terminal buildings. These areas are easily accessible before you proceed through security screening. It is crucial for all passengers to adhere to these regulations, as smoking inside the terminals beyond these designated zones is strictly prohibited and could lead to penalties. Historically, there have been reports of a smoking area available airside within a VIP Lounge in the Domestic Terminal, specifically one used by Air China and other carriers, as noted in an update from September 2020. However, more recent information, specifically from January 2025 concerning the International Terminal, indicates that there are no smoking areas whatsoever past security. This suggests a tightening of policies, and travelers should not rely on finding airside smoking facilities, especially if flying internationally. It is always advisable to confirm the current status upon arrival at the airport, as policies can change without extensive public notice. For those with layovers or connecting flights, if you need to smoke, you will generally need to exit the secure area of the airport to access the outdoor designated zones. This means you would have to pass through immigration (if arriving internationally), collect your luggage, and then re-check in and go through security again for your onward flight. This process can be time-consuming and is only feasible if you have a sufficiently long layover. Therefore, planning ahead is essential for smokers traveling through HAK. Vaping and the use of e-cigarettes are generally treated similarly to traditional smoking in many Chinese airports, and it is safest to assume that they are also restricted to the same designated outdoor areas. There is no specific information provided regarding vaping policies at HAK, so discretion and adherence to general smoking rules are recommended. Always look for clear signage indicating where smoking is permitted and refrain from smoking in undesignated areas to avoid fines or other inconveniences during your journey through Haikou Meilan International Airport.