Tashikuergan Hongqilafu Airport

Imagine an airliner landing where the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Pamirs seem close enough to touch. Tashkurgan Khunjerab Airport is not just another transport hub, but a true "gateway to the sky" on the Roof of the World, situated at a dizzying altitude. This new air harbour transforms what was once an arduous journey along mountain serpentines into a comfortable flight, giving tourists instant access to the rugged and mesmerising beauty of the Karakoram.

Tashkurgan Khunjerab Airport boasts unique characteristics that make it a significant landmark on the map of China and a true salvation for travellers:

• Record Altitude: Situated at 4,275 metres above sea level, this airport is the highest in Xinjiang. Taking off and landing here is an excursion in itself, offering stunning panoramic views of Mount Muztagh Ata and the surrounding ranges.
• Colossal Time Savings: Before the airport opened, the journey from Kashgar took 5 to 8 hours of driving on mountain roads. Now, this route can be covered by air in less than an hour, making the region much more accessible for short trips.
• Health Care: Given the extreme altitude, the terminal is designed with special attention to passenger well-being. The building is equipped with modern oxygen supply systems and, in some zones, diffuse oxygen enrichment to minimise symptoms of altitude sickness for arriving tourists.
• Unique Architecture: The terminal's design is inspired by the symbol of the local Tajik population—the soaring eagle. From the air, the shape of the building resembles a bird spreading its wings over the Pamir Plateau, blending harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.

Finding direct contact details for the regional Tashkurgan Khunjerab Airport can be challenging, as it is a small and relatively new facility. Most flight-related issues are handled through the airlines. Below is the main available information.

• Official Website: Currently, Tashkurgan Khunjerab Airport does not have a separate official website. It is recommended to check all flight information on the websites of the airlines serving this airport.
• Information Desk Phone: A direct telephone number for the airport information desk is not published in open sources. For information regarding flight status, schedules, or other enquiries, please contact your airline.
• Airport Address: The airport is located in the Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China, near the city of Tashkurgan.
• Email: An official email address for general enquiries is not provided.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official social media accounts.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should immediately contact the Baggage Services (Lost and Found) of your airline at the arrival airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Passenger support, including assistance for people with disabilities, is provided directly by the airlines. Please contact your carrier in advance to arrange necessary services.

Getting to Tashkurgan Khunjerab Airport, located on the Pamir Plateau, is straightforward, although transport options are limited due to the remoteness of the region. The airport is approximately 13 km from the city centre of Tashkurgan, and the journey usually takes about 20-30 minutes. Here are the main ways to reach one of the world's highest airports.

Taxi and Private Transfer

The most convenient and common way to reach the airport is by taxi. Cars can be found in the city centre or ordered via your hotel reception. It is recommended to agree on the fare in advance, as not all drivers use taximeters. Many hotels also offer paid transfer services, which is a reliable option, especially if you have an early departure or late arrival. This saves you from having to find transport on the spot.

Public Transport

At present, direct regular city bus services to the airport may be unavailable or irregular. Sometimes special shuttle buses are operated, with schedules linked to flight departure and arrival times. It is best to verify information about them locally or at the airport itself. It is important to note that there is no metro or railway service in Tashkurgan and its surroundings, so do not rely on these modes of transport.

Car Rental and Parking

If you plan to actively explore the region and the famous Karakoram Highway, renting a car can be an excellent solution. By renting a car in a larger city, such as Kashgar, you can drive comfortably to the airport and leave it in the car park. Tashkurgan Khunjerab Airport provides both short-term and long-term parking spaces. Please note that driving in China may require a local driving licence or a temporary permit.

Tashkurgan Khunjerab Airport (HQL) is a modern and compact aviation hub with a structure that is simple and intuitive for travellers. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which handles all domestic flights. Thanks to this, you won't have to worry about complicated transfers or finding the right building—all processes, from check-in to boarding, take place in a single space.

The terminal layout is logical and standard for small airports. Upon entry, you find yourself in the public area where check-in counters and baggage drop-off points are located. After completing check-in, passengers proceed to the security screening area, after which they enter the airside zone—the departure lounge with several boarding gates. The arrival area is located separately and includes baggage reclaim belts and the exit to the city. Due to the small size of the terminal, navigation causes no difficulties, and all signs are duplicated in English.

One of the key features of the airport is its novelty and functionality, as well as architectural elements reflecting the culture of the high-altitude Pamir region. Passing through all pre-flight formalities, including check-in and security, usually takes little time. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance—approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient to complete all procedures without rushing, especially if you are travelling with luggage.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the standard signs. Thanks to the compactness of the building, it is practically impossible to get lost here. The airport serves as an important gateway to the Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, one of the most picturesque places in China, and its well-thought-out infrastructure makes the start and end of your journey to the city of Tashkurgan as comfortable as possible.

The history of Tashkurgan Khunjerab Airport (HQL) is a story of a modern engineering marvel and rapid regional development. Being one of the newest airports in China, it does not have a centuries-old history, but its creation has already become a significant milestone. The airport was officially opened for flights on 23 December 2022, becoming the first high-altitude airport in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

Building an airport in such a remote and challenging location was an ambitious project. The main phase of its development was the construction itself, which began in 2020. Engineers and builders had to overcome difficulties associated with working at an impressive altitude of 4,275 metres above sea level, harsh weather conditions, and the complex geology of the Pamir Plateau. The entire design and construction process was aimed at creating a modern and safe air harbour capable of functioning in extreme conditions.

The airport's main achievement is its status as the highest civilian airport in Xinjiang. Its opening was a historic event for Tashkurgan and the entire region. Before the advent of air travel, the journey from Kashgar along the famous Karakoram Highway took many hours, and in winter, the road could be completely blocked. With the launch of flights, travel time has been reduced to one hour, which has fundamentally changed transport accessibility and opened up new opportunities for tourism development.

Interesting fact: the name "Khunjerab" refers to the pass of the same name on the border with Pakistan, highlighting the strategic location of the airport. Although its history is just beginning, the airport has already entered it as a symbol of progress, connecting the ancient Pamirs with the rest of the world and bringing its unique beauties much closer to travellers from around the globe.

Tashkurgan Khunjerab Airport (HQL) is a modern and the highest civilian airport in the Xinjiang region of China. Despite its compact size, it offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal is designed taking into account the needs of modern travellers and provides a basic level of service.

Within the airport, you will find several cafes and small snack bars where you can have hot tea, coffee, and a bite to eat before your flight. Shops mainly offer souvenirs and locally produced products reflecting the culture of the Pamir Plateau. Here you can buy unique gifts as well as travel essentials.

For a comfortable wait before boarding, general lounges with ample seating are provided. Also, the airport typically has a VIP lounge, access to which can be paid for additionally or obtained via airline loyalty cards. Passengers have access to free Wi-Fi and charging stations for electronic devices located in the waiting areas. Please note that connecting to Wi-Fi may require a local SIM card to receive a verification code.

A medical point operates at the airport, which is particularly important given its location at high altitude. Travellers with children have access to mother and child rooms equipped with changing tables. The entire terminal is designed with the needs of passengers with reduced mobility in mind: there are ramps, lifts, and specially equipped toilets. Assistance with moving around the airport can be requested from airline staff or at the information desk.

Financial services, such as currency exchange, may be limited or unavailable at the airport. It is recommended to exchange money in advance or use ATMs in the city. There are no hotels within the airport territory itself, but plenty of accommodation options are located in the city of Tashkurgan, which can be easily reached by taxi or transfer. Specialised conference rooms or business centres are absent at the airport, however, the VIP lounge can be used for working in a quiet environment.

Tashkurgan Khunjerab Airport (HQL) is a modern high-altitude airport serving the region of the same name. Since it is relatively small and has a limited number of flights, the choice of dining establishments here is modest but sufficient for a snack before departure or after arrival.

The main dining area is generally located in the public hall before security control (landside). Here you can find a small cafe or restaurant offering substantial meals. After passing through security, in the departure zone (airside), there is usually an outlet serving beverages and light snacks. As the airport is small, all establishments are located within the single terminal.

What to try:

• Full Meal: In the restaurant before the security zone, you can expect standard dishes of China, such as noodles, rice with meat or vegetables, and hot soups. Given the location in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, there is a chance to try local cuisine, for example, lagman or pilaf.
• Quick Snack: In the cafe, you can buy sandwiches, pastries, coffee, tea, and soft drinks. This is an ideal option if you have little time before boarding.

Special Dietary Needs:

Specialised vegan or gluten-free dishes may be absent from the menu. Vegetarians will likely manage to find options based on rice and vegetables. Most meat dishes in the region are traditionally Halal, however, it is recommended to verify this on-site. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is safer to bring food with you.

Prices and Opening Hours:

Prices at Tashkurgan airport, as in most airports globally, will be higher than in the city. Dining establishments usually operate in accordance with the flight schedule—opening a few hours before the first departure and closing after the last aircraft departs.

Travelling through Tashkurgan Khunjerab Airport, located in one of the highest and most picturesque regions of China, requires a little preparation. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, use these tips to save time, stress, and money.

Arrival Time and Check-in. The airport serves a unique region, so procedures may take longer. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2.5–3 hours before departure. If possible, complete online check-in in advance. However, be prepared for your documents to be thoroughly checked at the registration counter, especially if you are travelling through a border zone.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. Security services in Chinese airports operate very attentively. Prepare your passport and boarding pass in advance. Liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, are allowed in hand luggage. Pay special attention to portable chargers (power banks): they can be carried only in hand luggage, and the capacity marking must be clearly visible on the casing.

Seat Selection and Transfers. Given the airport's location amidst majestic mountains, a window seat will grant you unforgettable views during take-off and landing. If comfort and the ability to stretch your legs are more important to you, choose an aisle seat. Passengers with transfers should verify in advance whether they need to collect and re-check their luggage. Allow sufficient time between flights.

Special Security Checks. Since the airport in Tashkurgan is located in a strategically important region, all control procedures here are conducted with special attention. Be prepared that even on domestic flights, additional document checks and more thorough luggage inspections may be carried out. Keep all permits and identification documents close at hand—this will help speed up the process and avoid misunderstandings.

What to do if a flight is delayed? Weather conditions in the mountains can be unpredictable, which sometimes leads to delays. In the event of a flight delay, contact your airline representative to learn about your rights. Depending on the duration of the wait, you may be provided with vouchers for meals or even hotel accommodation. Remain calm and monitor the information on the departure boards.