Shenzhen, China
Smoking policy at Shenzhen, Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX)
Warnings & Caveats
For connecting flights you will now need to enter China and smoke outside the terminals and go through security again for your flights. This can be time-consuming and may risk missing your onward flight if not planned carefully.
Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX) has a very restrictive smoking policy, particularly for travelers who have already passed through security. As of updates from 2016, all designated smoking areas located inside the terminals, both domestic and international, have been permanently closed. This means that once you proceed past the security checkpoints, there are no facilities whatsoever for smoking within the secure areas of the airport. This policy aligns with a broader trend in many Chinese airports and public spaces to reduce smoking indoors. For passengers wishing to smoke, the only option available is to utilize the designated smoking areas located outside the terminal buildings. These outdoor zones are typically found near the entrances and exits of the terminals, before you enter the airport proper or proceed to check-in and security. Travelers should look for clear signage indicating these areas. It is crucial to complete your smoking activities before entering the terminal and beginning the security process, as there will be no opportunities to smoke once you are airside. A significant implication of this policy affects connecting passengers. If you have a layover at SZX and wish to smoke, you will be required to formally enter China, exit the secure area of the airport, locate one of the outdoor smoking zones, and then re-enter the terminal to go through security screening again for your onward flight. This process can be time-consuming and potentially stressful, especially if you have a tight connection. It is highly advisable for connecting travelers to factor in ample time for this procedure or consider alternatives to smoking during their transit. Vaping policies are not explicitly mentioned, but generally, airports that prohibit traditional smoking indoors also extend this ban to e-cigarettes and vaping devices. Therefore, it is safest to assume that vaping is also not permitted inside the terminal buildings, including after security. Travelers are encouraged to respect the airport's regulations to avoid any potential fines or inconveniences. Planning ahead by using nicotine replacement therapies or ensuring sufficient time for re-entry procedures is highly recommended for smokers traveling through SZX.
