Aksu Airport

Aksu Airport (also known as Aksu-Wensu Airport) is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the heart of the enigmatic Xinjiang. Located at the junction of the majestic Tian Shan mountains and the boundless Taklamakan Desert, this airport offers travellers a unique opportunity to begin their acquaintance with the ancient Silk Road immediately upon landing. Despite its compact size, the air harbour surprises with modern equipment and a cosy atmosphere, allowing passengers to wait for their flight in comfort while enjoying views of the mountain ranges.

Airport Features and Advantages:

Aksu Airport has undergone extensive modernisation and today represents an important regional hub with developed infrastructure. Among its key advantages are:

• Scenic Location: During take-off and landing, passengers are treated to breathtaking panoramas of the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan and the contrasting landscapes of the desert, making the flight an unforgettable event.
• Transport Accessibility: The airport is located just a 15–20 minute drive from the city centre. It can be reached by taxi or regular buses running between the terminal and urban districts.
• Modern Terminal: The passenger terminal is equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable stay: there are cosy waiting halls, VIP lounges, shops with local souvenirs, and cafes where you can taste regional cuisine.
• Efficient Service: Thanks to its compactness and smart logistics, passing through pre-flight formalities here takes minimal time, which is especially appreciated by transit tourists and business travellers.

To obtain current information about flights, services, and rules at Aksu Airport (AKU), please use the following contact details:

• Official Website: Currently, Aksu Airport does not have a separate official website. Information can be found on the Xinjiang Airport Group website: www.xjairport.com, of which it is a part.
• Inquiry Service Phone: You can call the airport information centre at: +86 997 251 3333.
• Airport Address: Airport Road, Wensu County, Aksu, Xinjiang, China.
• Email: A specialised email address for general passenger inquiries is not publicly provided. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Social Media: Official pages on international social networks are absent. News can be tracked on Xinjiang Airport Group resources.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to baggage, you must first contact the Lost & Found counter in the arrival hall or the representative office of the airline you arrived with.
• Passenger Support Contacts: All questions related to service at the airport can be asked by calling the inquiry service: +86 997 251 3333.

You can get to the airport from the city of Aksu, located in China, in several ways, allowing travellers to choose the most suitable option. The airport is located in close proximity to the city, so the journey usually does not take much time — on average from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic congestion and the chosen transport.

Public transport in the form of city buses is the most budget-friendly way to get to the airport. The fare is usually only 5–15 CNY. This is an excellent choice for economical tourists without a large amount of luggage. Bus stops are generally located directly outside the exit of the arrival hall, making them easily accessible. Please note that exact cash or a mobile payment app popular in China may be required for payment.

Taxi or private transfer is a faster and more comfortable option. A trip from the city centre to the airport will cost on average 30–50 CNY. An official taxi rank can be found at the terminal exit. To book a car, it is also convenient to use the popular app in the country, DiDi Chuxing. We strongly recommend ensuring the driver has switched on the taximeter, or agreeing on a fixed price before starting the trip to avoid misunderstandings.

For those who value independence and plan to explore the region, car rental will be the optimal solution. Rental companies operate in Aksu. However, it is important to remember that to drive a car in China, foreign citizens most often require local driving licences, as an international driving permit may not be recognised. Arriving at the airport in a rented or personal car, you can use the parking services, where both short-term and long-term parking options are available.

The Aksu Airport (AKU) is a regional air hub serving mainly domestic flights within China. Its structure is simple and convenient for travellers, making pre-flight procedures fast and comfortable.

A key feature of the airport is the presence of a single passenger terminal. This modern building combines all functions: serving both departing and arriving passengers. Thanks to this, you won't have to worry about finding the right building or long transfers — everything is located in one place.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Upon entry, you find yourself in the general area with check-in counters. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening line, beyond which is the "airside" with waiting lounges and boarding gates. The arrival area is located on the same level but in a different part of the building, and includes baggage claim belts and the exit to the city.

Passing through all formalities at Aksu Airport usually does not take much time. On average, check-in and screening take about 30-45 minutes. However, to avoid any surprises, it is recommended to arrive at the airport as standard — 1.5-2 hours before your flight's departure. This time will be more than enough to calmly get your bearings, check in your luggage, and find your boarding gate.

The history of Aksu Airport (AKU) is a story of growth and modernisation, reflecting the dynamic development of the entire region. The original airport, known as Aksu Hongqipo, was built in 1966 and functioned for a long time as a dual-purpose airfield, serving both civilian and military needs. It played an important role in ensuring transport accessibility to this remote corner of China.

With the beginning of the 21st century, as economic growth and tourist flow increased, the old airport ceased to cope with the increased loads. Its runway and terminal had limited capabilities. In this regard, a strategic decision was made to build a completely new, modern airport complex in a different location to meet the growing needs of the region.

A key moment in the history of the air harbour was 2011, when the new Aksu Airport was officially opened. This project became a major milestone in the development of Xinjiang's transport infrastructure. The new complex received a modern passenger terminal and an extended runway capable of accepting larger aircraft, such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320. This allowed for a significant expansion of flight geography and an increase in passenger traffic.

Since its opening, the new Aksu Airport has been constantly developing, becoming an important transport hub in southern Xinjiang. It not only ensures reliable connections with major cities in China but also promotes the development of local tourism, making unique natural and cultural attractions of the region, such as the Tomur Grand Canyon, accessible. The airport is a vivid example of how modern infrastructure stimulates economic and social development.

Aksu Airport (AKU) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is equipped with amenities that meet the basic needs of travellers.

Within the airport, you will find several cafes and eateries where you can have a snack before departure, trying local cuisine as well as popular treats of China. In addition, small shops operate where you can purchase souvenirs, press, snacks, and other goods that might be needed on the road.

For those who prefer to wait for their flight in more comfortable conditions, VIP lounges are provided. Free Wi-Fi is available to passengers throughout the terminal, and special zones for charging electronic devices are equipped in the waiting halls, allowing you to stay connected.

Financial services are represented mainly by ATMs where cash can be withdrawn. In case of necessity, passengers can contact the medical point for first aid. For travellers with small children, a mother and child room is equipped where you can take care of your baby in a quiet environment.

The airport is also adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility. Ramps, special toilets, and other amenities are provided here. Airport staff are always ready to provide necessary assistance during boarding and disembarking from the aircraft.

There are no hotels directly on the airport territory, but many accommodation options can be found in the city of Aksu itself, which is a few minutes' drive away. Specialised conference halls or business centres are absent in the airport, but such services are provided by major hotels in the city.

Aksu Airport (AKU), being a regional air hub, offers passengers basic but quite sufficient opportunities for a snack or a full meal before departure. The choice of establishments here is not as large as in major international airports, but you will not go hungry. Food outlets are located both in the general area before security control (landside) and in the secure departure area (airside).

The core of the food court consists of small cafes and eateries. Here you can drink coffee, tea, soft drinks, and have a snack with sandwiches or pastries. The main highlight is the establishments offering dishes of local Uyghur cuisine. If you have time, be sure to try the famous Laghman (pulled noodles with meat and vegetables) or a portion of aromatic kebab. This is an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the gastronomy of the Xinjiang region right at the airport.

For those in a hurry, the best option will be quick snacks: the airport has vending machines with drinks and snacks, and in cafes, you can buy packed sandwiches or local flatbread — nan. If you have time for a more substantial lunch, look for cafes serving hot dishes — this will be the most filling option. Most establishments operate in accordance with the flight schedule, closing at night.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding food with Halal status will be effortless, as it is the standard for this region. Vegetarians will be able to find simple vegetable side dishes, meat-free noodles, or pastries. However, specialised vegan or gluten-free dishes will likely be absent, so passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to carry necessary products with them. Prices at the airport are traditionally higher than in the city but remain at a moderate level.

When planning a trip through the airport of Aksu city, it is worth considering several tips that will make your journey more comfortable and predictable. Here are key recommendations for travellers.

Arrival time at the airport. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This will give you enough time to calmly go through all procedures: check-in, baggage drop-off, and security control. If you are travelling during peak seasons or holidays, it is better to add another 30-60 minutes.

Check-in and Security Control. To save time, use online check-in for the flight if your airline provides such an option. In airports in China, security control can be quite strict. Prepare your passport and boarding pass in advance, remove all metal objects from your pockets, and take laptops and other large gadgets out of your carry-on luggage.

Choosing a seat on the plane. If there is an opportunity to choose a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. A window seat will offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat will allow you to stand up freely and stretch your legs without disturbing neighbours.

Carry-on Luggage. Standard rules usually prohibit carrying liquids in containers larger than 100 ml, as well as sharp objects. All liquids must be packed in one transparent bag. Pay special attention to portable chargers (power banks) — they can only be carried in hand luggage, and they must have a clear capacity marking.

Transfer Passengers. If you have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether you need to collect your luggage in Aksu or if it will be automatically forwarded to the final destination. Follow the "Transfer" signs and allow enough time for moving between terminals and re-screening if required.

Customs Control. When entering the country via an international flight (if applicable), you will need to pass through customs control. If you have goods subject to declaration, fill out the customs declaration in advance. We recommend familiarising yourself with the current customs regulations of China before the trip.

Saving Time and Money. Book a taxi or transfer from the airport in advance online — this is often cheaper. Pack light carry-on luggage to avoid surcharges for excess weight. Take an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled at drinking fountains after passing security control.

In Case of Flight Delay. In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative. Depending on the duration of the wait, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts and documents to request compensation through your insurance company if necessary.