Turpan Jiaohe Airport

Turpan Jiaohe Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to the heart of the legendary Silk Road. Located in immediate proximity to one of the hottest spots on the planet — the Turpan Depression, this airport welcomes travellers with a unique blend of modern infrastructure and the breath of ancient history. Named after the nearby ancient city of Jiaohe, the terminal serves as a convenient starting point for exploring mysterious ruins, grape valleys, and the Flaming Mountains of Xinjiang.

Unique Location and Transport Accessibility

One of the airport's main features is its fantastic proximity to key locations. It is situated just a few hundred metres from Turpan North Railway Station (high-speed rail), allowing passengers to easily transfer from plane to train and continue their journey across China. Furthermore, the famous ancient city of Jiaohe is located literally next door, allowing you to begin your excursion programme almost immediately after landing.

Compactness and Comfort

Unlike giant hubs, Turpan Jiaohe is distinguished by a cosy atmosphere and the absence of long queues. The terminal is designed with elements of local architecture, reflecting the Islamic and Uyghur traditions of the region. Thanks to its small size, completing all pre-flight formalities takes minimum time, and navigation inside the building is intuitive for any tourist. This is an ideal option for those wishing to avoid the bustle of Urumqi airport, located 150 km away.

To contact representatives of Jiaohe Airport (TLQ), you can use the following contact details. Please note that for small regional airports, the most reliable method of communication is by phone.

• Official Airport Website: Currently, the airport does not have a separate website. It is managed by the Xinjiang Airport Group, whose official portal is www.xjairport.com.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +86 995 8621 999
• Airport Address: Gaochang District, Turpan, Xinjiang, China
• Email: An official email address for general inquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the phone for communication.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official pages on international social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you should primarily contact the representative office of the airline you flew with. Additional information can be obtained via the general airport phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For consultations and assistance regarding airport services, please call the inquiry service.

Jiaohe Airport (Turpan Jiaohe Airport, IATA: TLQ) is located approximately 12 kilometres northwest of the city centre of Turpan. You can get from the air harbour to the city or back in several ways, the choice of which depends on your budget and comfort preferences. On average, the journey takes about 20-30 minutes.

Taxi is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the airport. A trip from the centre of Turpan will take about 20 minutes. The estimated cost will be 30-50 Chinese Yuan (CNY) depending on traffic conditions. It is recommended to use official taxi services and ensure the driver switches on the meter, or agree on a fixed price in advance.

A more budget-friendly option is public transport. Special shuttle buses run from the airport to key points in the city. This is an excellent choice for economical travellers not burdened with heavy luggage. The fare is usually 5-10 CNY, and the travel time is about 30-40 minutes. It is best to check the schedule and exact routes on site, as they are subject to change.

For those planning to actively explore the surroundings of Turpan and other corners of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China, a convenient solution would be car rental. Rental company counters may be present at the airport, offering complete freedom of movement. For travellers arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, parking is available where cars can be left for short or long periods.

It is worth noting that Jiaohe Airport is not the only one in the region. The largest transport hub is Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (URC), located approximately 164 km from the city. Many travellers fly there and then reach Turpan by high-speed train or bus. Among other regional airports that may be convenient for planning complex routes are Korla Airport (KRL), Shihezi Huayuan (SHF), Hami Airport (HMI), and Hejing (Bayanbulak) Airport (HJB).

Jiaohe Airport (TLQ) in Turpan is a compact and modern aviation hub distinguished by a structure that is simple and clear for passengers. The airport operates with just one passenger terminal, which serves domestic flights within China. This saves travellers from the need to move between different buildings and makes orientation within the airport extremely simple.

The terminal layout is strictly logical. The building is designed so that all key zones are in immediate proximity to one another. Departure and arrival zones are clearly demarcated. Typically, check-in counters and the arrivals hall with baggage claim belts are located on the ground floor, while the pre-flight security screening area and boarding gates are on the first floor. Navigation is intuitive thanks to signs in Chinese and English.

Since there is only one terminal and transfers between different parts of the building are not required, all processes occur in a single flow. In the departure hall, passengers first check in for their flight, then proceed upstairs for screening. After security control, they enter the secure zone — a small waiting lounge with several boarding gates. The arrivals hall is equally simple: after disembarking the aircraft, passengers immediately enter the baggage claim area, and from there — to the terminal exit.

Thanks to the airport's small size and the absence of large crowds, the time required to complete all formalities is usually minimal. Check-in and screening typically take no more than 30-40 minutes. Nevertheless, the standard recommendation is to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure to avoid rushing. Getting lost here is practically impossible, making Jiaohe Airport very convenient even for inexperienced travellers.

The history of Jiaohe Airport is, in essence, the history of two airports. The original airfield in Turpan, known as Tuokexun, was built back in 1954, but over time it ceased to meet the growing demands of the region. With the rapid development of tourism in Xinjiang, especially in the area of the famous Turpan Depression, it became obvious that a modern air harbour was necessary. A decision was made not to reconstruct the old facility, but to build a completely new airport in a different location.

Construction of the modern Jiaohe Airport began in 2009 and became an important stage in the development of the entire region's infrastructure. The official opening took place on 9 July 2010. The new airport was designed to 4C standards, allowing it to accommodate medium-haul aircraft such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320. This event radically changed the transport accessibility of China in this unique corner of the country, providing a powerful boost to tourism development.

One of the key roles of Jiaohe Airport is its function as a primary diversion airfield for Urumqi Diwopu International Airport. Due to difficult weather conditions, particularly fog in winter at Urumqi, the airport in Turpan frequently accepts flights that cannot land in the regional capital. This makes it a strategically important facility for ensuring the stability of air traffic throughout Xinjiang.

Among interesting facts, one can note the very name of the airport — Jiaohe. It is named in honour of the eponymous ancient fortress city, the ruins of which are a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the main attractions of the region. Thus, the airport's name immediately refers travellers to the rich historical heritage that awaits them in this amazing place.

Jiaohe Airport (TLQ) in Turpan is a modern and compact aviation hub that provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the airport is well-equipped to satisfy the basic needs of travellers arriving in this unique corner of China.

Dining and Shopping. The terminal houses several cafes and eateries where you can enjoy coffee or have a snack featuring local and European cuisine. Shops offer travel essentials, press, as well as souvenirs, including the famous Turpan raisins and handicrafts. This is an excellent opportunity to buy last-minute gifts for loved ones.

Lounges and Amenities. Comfortable waiting areas are available for all passengers. The airport also features a VIP lounge for business class passengers or loyalty card holders, offering an enhanced level of comfort, beverages, and snacks. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations allow you to keep your electronic devices powered.

Financial and Other Services. The terminal building has ATMs and currency exchange counters where necessary financial transactions can be made. A medical post operates to provide urgent assistance. Passengers travelling with small children can use the mother and child room. For people with reduced mobility, ramps, special restrooms, and staff assistance during boarding and disembarking are provided.

Accommodation and Business. There are no hotels within the airport grounds, however, a wide selection of hotels to suit any taste and budget can be found in the city of Turpan itself, which is easily accessible by taxi or bus. There are no specialised conference halls in the airport, but basic business services may be available in the VIP lounge.

Turpan Jiaohe Airport (TLQ) is an important regional transport hub, however, as with most regional airports in China, the choice of dining establishments here is more modest compared to major international hubs. Nevertheless, passengers can find several options for both a quick snack and a more substantial meal before departure. The main food outlets are concentrated in the airport's single terminal.

Typically, the main restaurant or cafe is located in the public zone (before security control). This is the best place for a full lunch. Here you have an excellent opportunity to try local Xinjiang cuisine, which is famous for its vibrant flavours. Look out for hits such as aromatic pilaf (抓饭), hearty lagman noodles, and of course, lamb kebabs. Most meat dishes in the region comply with Halal standards.

In the departure zone, after passing passport control and screening, the selection is usually more limited. Here you can most often find a small cafe or retail point offering packaged snacks, sandwiches, pastries, crisps, and beverages. This is an ideal option if you wish to have a quick bite directly before boarding your flight.

Passengers with special dietary requirements should be prepared for limited choices. While finding vegetarian dishes based on vegetables and rice is possible, strict vegan or gluten-free options are practically non-existent. In such cases, it is most reliable to carry your own snacks. Prices at the airport are traditionally higher than in the city, and opening hours depend directly on the flight schedule, so establishments may be closed at night or between flights.

To ensure your journey through Jiaohe Airport in the city of Turpan goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these helpful tips. A thoughtful approach will help save time, stress, and money, leaving only pleasant impressions of your trip to China.

Arrival Time and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This will give you sufficient time to calmly go through all procedures. Whenever possible, use online check-in, which is offered by many airlines — this will save time in queues. Keep your passport and ticket ready: security staff at Chinese airports may check them at the terminal entrance.

Hand Luggage: What to Watch Out For. Rules for carry-on luggage in China are quite strict. Besides the standard limit on liquids (up to 100 ml in one container), pay special attention to electronic devices. Power banks (portable chargers) are allowed only in carry-on luggage, and their capacity must be clearly marked on the casing. Lighters and matches are generally completely prohibited. To avoid delays, check the current requirements of your airline in advance.

Economy and Comfort In-flight. Want to save money? Bring an empty water bottle and fill it up after passing security control at a special dispenser. If the view is important to you, choose a window seat. For those who value the ability to stretch their legs or disembark first, an aisle seat is better suited. Booking a transfer from the airport in advance also often helps save money compared to finding a taxi on the spot.

Transfers and Flight Delays. If you have a connecting flight, check in advance if you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. It is useful to have essentials in your hand luggage: chargers, medication, and hygiene items.

Customs Control. When leaving or entering the country, be prepared to pass through customs control. Large sums of cash must be declared. There are also restrictions on the export of certain goods, including cultural artefacts and certain types of medication. If you are unsure whether a particular item can be taken out, it is better to familiarise yourself with customs regulations in advance or consult on site.