Cautionary note to readers who will come to this thread late: the above discussion refers to the airport currently under use as of September 2011, which is close-in to the city. A brand new Kunming airport will be opening--supposedly at end of 2011--and all operations will be moved there. This new airport is quite a distance from the city and new timing parameters for layovers and transport to/from city to new KMG will apply. Enjoy old KMG convenient and quick access while you can!