Kanasi Airport

Kanasi Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to the fairytale world of the Altai Mountains. Located amidst the wilderness, it allows travellers to save hours of tiring road travel and immediately immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the "Switzerland of the East". The approach for landing here offers unforgettable impressions: breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and endless forests open up from the window, setting the mood for the upcoming adventure even before touching the ground.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Kanasi Airport is unique in its location and operating schedule. Being one of the few airports oriented almost exclusively towards tourist traffic, it is located closer to the region's main attraction — Kanas Lake (about 50 km) — than to the administrative centre. This makes it a strategically important point for those who want to reach the protected areas as quickly as possible, bypassing long bus transfers from Urumqi or Altay.

The small but modern terminal is designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape. Due to harsh climatic conditions in winter, the airport operates on a seasonal schedule, serving flights primarily from June to October, during the peak of tourist activity. The compactness of the building is a significant advantage: completing all formalities takes mere minutes, leaving travellers more time to relax in nature.

Finding direct and up-to-date contacts for small regional airports, such as Kanasi Airport (KJI), can be challenging. Often, they do not have dedicated websites or information services for the general public. We have gathered the main information and recommendations to help you navigate:

• Official Website: Kanasi Airport does not have its own official website. Information regarding flights, status, and services is best checked on the websites of airlines operating flights to Burqin, or on flight aggregator websites.
• Information Desk Phone: A direct public phone number for the airport inquiry service is not available. For all questions related to your flight, it is recommended to contact your airline's call centre directly.
• Airport Address: The airport is located in Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China.
• Email and Social Media: The airport does not have specialized accounts for passenger communication.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should immediately contact your airline's representative at the arrival airport or call the carrier's baggage tracing service. The airport does not manage the tracing process.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Passenger support regarding booking, ticket changes, special services, and other issues is provided by the airlines operating flights to the airport.

There are several ways to reach Kanasi Airport (KJI), which serves as the gateway to the picturesque Altai region in China. It is important to consider that the airport is closer to the famous Kanas National Park (about 50 km) than to the city of Burqin. The distance from the city centre to the airport is approximately 150 km, so the journey will take an average of 2–2.5 hours. The choice of transport will depend on your budget, time, and preferences.

Taxi or Pre-booked Transfer is the most convenient and fastest option. This is particularly relevant for travellers with bulky luggage or those who value comfort and wish to avoid transfers. Although the cost will be higher than public transport, you will be driven directly to the terminal. It is highly recommended to negotiate the price with the driver in advance or use official services to avoid inflated fares.

A more budget-friendly method is special shuttle buses. They often run between the airport, Burqin city, and the main tourist centre — Kanas Lake. The schedule of these buses is usually coordinated with flight arrival and departure times. This is an excellent choice for solo travellers and those wishing to save money. Information about the route and schedule is best verified in advance at your hotel or local tourist centres, as it may change depending on the season.

For those planning to actively explore the surroundings and who value independence, car rental is the ideal solution. Rental points can be found both at the airport itself and in the city. By renting a car, you gain complete freedom of movement around the region. Kanasi Airport provides parking where you can leave a vehicle for both short and long terms. We recommend booking transport in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (summer and early autumn), to guarantee the availability of cars.

Kanasi Airport (KJI) is a small and modern airport serving one of the most picturesque tourist destinations in Xinjiang. Its structure is extremely simple and clear, making travel comfortable even for first-time visitors.

The airport consists of one terminal, which serves both domestic and (seasonally) charter flights. Since there is only one building, you do not need to worry about transfers between terminals — all zones are within walking distance of each other. The airport layout is intuitive: after entering, you find yourself in the general hall where the check-in counters are located.

Departure and Arrival Zones are clearly separated but located within the same compact building. The departure zone includes check-in counters, a security checkpoint, and a small waiting lounge with boarding gates. The arrival zone consists of the baggage claim hall and the exit to the city. Navigation is simplified thanks to clear signage in Chinese and English.

Due to the airport's small size, all pre-flight formalities are completed quite quickly. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is usually more than sufficient to check in for the flight, drop off luggage, and pass through security control without rushing. Compared to major international hubs, navigation and waiting here take minimal time, allowing you to enjoy your holiday for longer.

Kanasi Airport (KJI), located near the city of Burqin in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China, is one of the most scenic and seasonal airports in the country. Its history is inextricably linked with the development of tourism in the famous Kanas Nature Reserve, often referred to as the "Swiss Alps of the East".

Construction of the airport began in 2006 as part of a state programme to improve accessibility to remote tourist regions. By 15 August 2007, the airport was officially opened and received its first flight. Its creation was a real breakthrough, as previously, Kanas Lake could only be reached after a long and exhausting journey along mountain roads.

One of the main features of the airport since its inception is its seasonal mode of operation. Due to harsh winter conditions, heavy snowfall, and low temperatures that make the runway unsafe to operate, the airport usually functions only during the warm period — approximately from June to early October. This directly coincides with the peak tourist season in the region.

With the growing popularity of the Kanas Reserve, the airport's initial infrastructure ceased to cope with the flow of tourists. Consequently, a large-scale expansion and modernization project was implemented, completed in 2017-2018. During the reconstruction, a new, more spacious terminal was built, and the runway was extended. This allowed for a significant increase in capacity and the ability to accept larger aircraft types, making the journey to Kanas Lake even more convenient and accessible for thousands of visitors.

Kanasi Airport (KJI), serving the eponymous picturesque region, provides passengers with a basic set of services for a comfortable wait. Despite its modest size, the air terminal strives to meet the essential needs of travellers. Several small cafes operate within the terminal, where you can order local dishes as well as tea or coffee. Additionally, there are souvenir shops and stores with travel essentials where you can buy water, snacks, and gifts.

A general waiting hall is equipped for passenger relaxation. Sometimes in such airports, one can find a small VIP lounge for an additional fee, offering a quieter atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi is available within the terminal; however, a Chinese phone number may be required to connect. For the convenience of passengers, charging stations for mobile devices are available in the waiting hall.

Regarding financial services, the selection is limited. ATMs may be installed in the airport building, but currency exchange points or bank branches are generally absent. Therefore, it is recommended to arrange cash exchange in advance. In case of need, a medical point functions at the airport, ready to provide first aid.

The airport also considers the needs of passengers with children and people with reduced mobility. A mother and child room is provided for family travellers. For passengers requiring special assistance, a barrier-free environment has been created, including ramps and specially equipped toilets. Nevertheless, regarding the need for accompaniment or the provision of a wheelchair, it is best to inform your airline in advance.

There are no hotels directly on the territory of Kanasi Airport. The nearest hotels and guesthouses are located in tourist villages near Kanas Lake and in nearby towns. Specialized business centres and conference halls are absent at the airport, as it is primarily oriented towards tourists.

Kanasi Airport (KJI) is a small regional airport serving mainly the tourist flow to the eponymous lake. Dining options here are quite limited and designed so that passengers can have a quick snack before departure. Do not expect a wide variety of restaurants and cafes as in major international hubs, but finding basic meals and drinks is quite possible.

All catering establishments are concentrated in the single terminal of the airport, primarily in the general area before security control (landside). Typically, this consists of one or two small cafes or a canteen offering simple dishes of Chinese and local Xinjiang cuisine. The menu may include noodles, rice with vegetables or meat, as well as dumplings. If you are lucky, you might try local specialities, such as flatbreads or samsa (meat pies).

For a quick snack, counters with packaged snacks, pastries, crisps, and drinks are suitable. If you are counting on a full lunch, the best solution is to visit the small cafe in the main hall. Prices at the airport are generally higher than average for the region due to its remote location. Opening hours are strictly tied to the flight schedule, so they may be closed during quiet periods.

Travellers with strict dietary restrictions (vegans, gluten-free diet) are recommended to bring food with them. The choice of vegetarian dishes usually comes down to rice with vegetables or plain noodles, and finding strictly certified Halal or gluten-free options is practically impossible within the terminal facilities. It is best to eat beforehand in the city of Burqin or at your hotel before departing for the airport.

Travelling through Kanasi Airport, located near the city of Burqin in China, will be easier and more pleasant if you follow a few useful tips. To avoid rushing, arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight departure. During the peak tourist season (summer), it is better to allow extra time due to a possible increase in passenger numbers.

The check-in and security procedure is standard, but to pass through it faster, have your passport and boarding pass ready. Flight check-in usually closes 40-60 minutes before departure. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: window seats will give you the opportunity to enjoy views of the picturesque landscapes of Xinjiang, while aisle seats provide more legroom and allow for a quicker exit upon arrival.

Pay special attention to the rules for carrying hand luggage. Liquids are allowed in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, flammable substances, and other dangerous items are prohibited. Power banks must be carried only in hand luggage, and their capacity must be clearly indicated on the casing.

If you have a connecting flight, verify in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. Kanasi Airport is small, which simplifies navigation, but always leave a sufficient time margin between flights. Customs control is relevant mainly for international flights, but if you are flying from another country with a transfer in China, be prepared to declare valuable items or large sums of cash.

To save time and money, complete online check-in for your flight if the airline provides such an option. Book tickets and accommodation in advance, especially if you plan a trip during the high season. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be inflated, so you can bring an empty water bottle and fill it after passing security.

In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and possible compensation (meals, accommodation). Having travel insurance, a book, or a charged gadget will help pass the waiting time. Remain calm and be prepared for schedule changes, especially due to weather conditions in the mountainous area.