Beijing Capital International Airport — Fun Facts for Kids

Beijing Capital International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, featuring the stunning dragon-shaped Terminal 3 built for the 2008 Olympics.

Quick Facts About Beijing Capital International Airport

IATA Code
PEK
ICAO Code
ZBAA
City
Beijing
Country
China
Year Opened
1958
Annual Passengers
~100 million
Terminals
3
Runways
3

Welcome to Beijing Capital International Airport!

Have you ever wondered what makes Beijing Capital International Airport so special? Located in the wonderful city of Beijing, China, this airport with the code PEK (or ZBAA for pilots and air traffic controllers) is one of the most fascinating airports on our planet. It first opened its doors in 1958 and has been welcoming travelers from all around the world ever since.

Every year, approximately 100 million passengers pass through Beijing Capital International Airport, making it one of the busiest airports in its region. With 3 terminals and 3 runways, this airport is a marvel of modern engineering and design. Terminal 3 designed by Norman Foster shaped like a dragon, one of the busiest airports in the world.

Amazing Facts About Beijing Capital International Airport for Kids

Here are some incredible things that make this airport truly unique and exciting:

  • ✈ Beijing Capital was once the busiest airport in Asia and the second busiest in the world, handling over 100 million passengers before the pandemic.
  • ✈ Terminal 3, built for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, is the second largest airport terminal building in the world — it is shaped like a dragon, a symbol of good luck in Chinese culture.
  • ✈ The famous architect Sir Norman Foster designed Terminal 3 with a roof that changes color from red to orange to yellow as you walk through it, representing a sunrise.
  • ✈ Beijing Capital Airport is close to the Great Wall of China — one of the most famous landmarks on Earth.
  • ✈ The airport uses an automated baggage system that can handle over 19,000 bags per hour!

🌟 Super Fun Fact!

Terminal 3 at Beijing Capital Airport was designed to look like a giant Chinese dragon when seen from above! The roof is colored in traditional Chinese red and gold.

Beijing Capital International Airport in Aviation Snakes & Ladders

Did you know that Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) is featured in the Aviation Snakes & Ladders board game by 2410 Games? This exciting educational game takes you on a journey through real airports from around the globe, including this very one in Beijing!

As you play the game, you will land on airport squares and learn real facts about each one — from the IATA codes that pilots use, to the countries and cities where these airports are located. It is a fantastic way to learn geography, aviation, and world culture while having a blast with family and friends.

The Aviation Snakes & Ladders game is designed for smart kids ages 3-12 and makes learning about world airports like Beijing Capital International Airport an unforgettable adventure. Every roll of the dice is a chance to discover something new about our amazing world!

Why Learning About Airports Is Important

Airports are not just places where planes take off and land — they are incredible gateways that connect people, cultures, and countries from every corner of the Earth. When you learn about airports like Beijing Capital International Airport, you are also learning about geography, engineering, history, and different cultures around the world.

Understanding IATA codes (like PEK) and ICAO codes (like ZBAA) is something that real pilots, air traffic controllers, and aviation professionals use every single day. By learning these codes now, you are taking your first step into the exciting world of aviation!

Whether you dream of becoming a pilot, an engineer, a travel writer, or just love exploring new places, knowing about the world's airports gives you a head start. And with games like Aviation Snakes & Ladders, learning is always an adventure!

Keep Learning! Educational Resources

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Loved learning about Beijing Capital International Airport? Check out these other amazing airports featured in Aviation Snakes & Ladders: