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Ulanhot Airport

About the Airport

Ulanhot Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars
Ulanhot Airport is the aerial gateway to the eastern part of Inner Mongolia, opening the way to the region's boundless steppes and unique culture. This cozy regional aviation hub is located near the "Red City" (which is how Ulanhot translates) and serves as a convenient starting point for tourists wishing to explore the history of the Mongolian people. Thanks to its compact size and modern infrastructure, the airport ensures a calm and comfortable atmosphere, sparing travellers from the stress of major metropolises.
IATA Code HLH
ICAO Code ZBUL
City Ulanhot (China)
Distance to Center About 17 km
Status Domestic
Annual Passengers ~968,000 (2023 data)

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Convenient Logistics. The airport is located in the town of Yilelite, less than 20 kilometers from the center of Ulanhot. The journey to the city by taxi or bus takes very little time, allowing travellers to quickly reach their hotels or begin their sightseeing program immediately upon arrival.

Comfort and No Queues. Unlike congested international hubs, Ulanhot offers passengers a swift passage through all formalities. Check-in and baggage claim are conducted efficiently here, and the staff is noted for the hospitality characteristic of the people of Inner Mongolia.

Proximity to Historical Shrines. The airport is the nearest hub for visiting the world's only Genghis Khan Temple, located in the northern part of the city. This unique structure, erected in 1940, attracts pilgrims and historians wishing to honour the memory of the great commander (not to be confused with the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan in Ordos).

Contact Information

Below you will find contact information for Ulanhot Airport (HLH). We recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date data before your trip.

  • Official Website: www.nm-airport.com.cn. Please note that this is the website of the managing company, Inner Mongolia Civil Aviation Airport Group, which serves all airports in the region.
  • Inquiry Service Phone: +86-482-8296114.
  • Airport Address: China, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Hinggan League, Ulanhot City.
  • Email: An official email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
  • Social Media: News and updates can be tracked on the managing company's official WeChat account: 内蒙古民航机场 (ID: nmgjcjt).
  • Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to the search for lost or damaged luggage, please contact the tracing service at: +86-482-8296138.
  • Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and consultations on general matters, please call the main airport inquiry service.

How to Get to the Airport

There are several ways to get to Ulanhot Airport (HLH), located approximately 16 kilometers northeast of the center of Ulanhot city. The choice of the best option depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. The trip from the city center usually takes from 20 to 40 minutes.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly way to reach the airport. A special Airport Shuttle Bus runs between the airport and key points in the city. The schedule of these buses is generally tied to flight arrival and departure times. This is a convenient and inexpensive option, but it is worth verifying the route and schedule in advance, as they may change. There is no direct railway or metro connection to the airport.

Taxi and Transfer are the most convenient and fastest methods. A taxi ride from the city center will take about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. It is recommended to use official taxi services and ask the driver to use the meter or agree on the price in advance. In China, taxi-hailing apps like Didi Chuxing are also widely used, allowing you to know the trip cost beforehand. Additionally, you can book a private transfer through your hotel or online services, which is especially convenient for travellers with large luggage.

Car Rental offers maximum freedom of movement, especially if you plan to explore the surroundings of Ulanhot. Rental agencies operate at the airport and in the city. However, please remember that foreign tourists generally require a Chinese driving license to drive a car in China. International permits are most often not recognized, so this option is mainly suitable for residents or tourists who have obtained temporary local licenses.

For those travelling to the airport by private car, parking is available. Ulanhot Airport has both short-term and long-term parking zones, allowing you to leave your vehicle for the duration of your trip.

Terminals and Map

Ulanhot Airport (HLH) is a modern and compact aviation hub that serves both domestic and some regional flights. Its structure is designed for maximum passenger convenience and quick navigation.

A key feature of the airport is the presence of a single passenger terminal. This significantly simplifies orientation: you will not have to worry about transferring between different buildings or taking shuttles. All zones—check-in, security, departures, and arrivals—are under one roof, making movement through the airport fast and intuitive.

The terminal generally features a standard two-story layout. The first floor usually houses the Arrivals Zone and baggage claim belts. The second floor contains the Departures Zone, including check-in counters, security checkpoints, and boarding gates. Thanks to the airport's small size, the walk from the entrance to the gate takes minimal time.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Ulanhot Airport is usually quite quick. It is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time will be more than sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security without rushing. All signage in the terminal is duplicated in English, and staff are ready to assist should any questions arise; getting lost here is practically impossible.

Airport History

The history of Ulanhot Airport (HLH) began long before its modern appearance. The first airfield on this site was built back in 1940 and initially served military purposes. For many decades, it was not used for civil aviation, and its infrastructure remained minimal.

A new era for the air gates of Ulanhot city arrived at the end of the 20th century. The official opening of the airport for civil flights took place in 1995, which became a turning point for the transport accessibility of the entire Hinggan League. From that moment, the airport began providing regular connections to key cities in China, contributing to the development of local tourism and the economy.

With the growth of passenger traffic, the need for serious modernization arose. The most significant stage of development was a large-scale reconstruction completed in 2017. During the works, a new, more spacious, and modern terminal was built, and the runway was expanded and lengthened. This allowed the airport to accept larger aircraft types and serve a significantly greater number of passengers, opening new opportunities for the region.

Although Ulanhot Airport is regional and does not break world records for passenger traffic, its main achievement is stable development and a reliable connection of the region with the rest of the country. An interesting fact: the city's name, "Ulanhot," translates from Mongolian as "Red City," and the airport serves as the starting point for exploring its rich history and unique culture.

Services and Facilities

Ulanhot Airport (HLH) offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is designed to ensure convenience and accessibility to essential services before departure or upon arrival.

For those wishing to have a snack or do some shopping, the airport has several cafes and eateries where one can have coffee and light meals. Shops are also available for purchasing souvenirs, travel essentials, and local products. The waiting hall features comfortable seating, and for passengers preferring enhanced comfort, VIP lounges with a more private atmosphere and additional services may be available.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected. To charge gadgets, special stands and power outlets are installed in the waiting areas. Passengers can use ATMs to withdraw cash. If necessary, one can visit the medical point, where first aid will be provided.

The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with special requirements. Ramps, special restrooms, and staff assistance for passengers with disabilities are provided; it is recommended to book assistance in advance through the airline. For travellers with small children, there is a mother and child room where one can take care of the baby in a quiet environment.

There are no hotels within the airport building itself, but the nearest hotels are located in the city of Ulanhot, which can be quickly reached by taxi. Specialized conference rooms or business centers are absent in the terminal, but such services can be found in major hotels in the city.

Where to Eat

Although Ulanhot Airport (HLH) is a regional hub, it offers passengers several options for a snack or a full meal before departure. The selection here is not as extensive as in major international hubs in China, but you certainly won't go hungry.

Primarily, Ulanhot Airport features small cafes and eateries located both in the public area (before security control) and in the departure zone. Here you can have coffee, tea, soft drinks, and order simple dishes. This is an ideal option for those who want a quick snack. For a more substantial lunch, choices may be limited, but generally, one can find an establishment offering hot dishes, such as noodle soups or rice with meat and vegetables.

Particular attention should be paid to local cuisine. Since the airport is located in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, regional specialties can be found in some cafes. This can be a wonderful opportunity to try traditional Mongolian milk tea, hearty meat dishes, or purchase dried beef as an edible souvenir.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding options for vegans, vegetarians, or people with gluten intolerance may be challenging. The selection will likely be limited to simple sides like rice or vegetables. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to carry their own snacks. Prices in airport establishments are moderate, slightly higher than in the city, which is standard practice. Most cafes and restaurants operate according to the flight schedule, opening a few hours before the first departure and closing after the last one.

Travel Tips

To ensure your journey through Ulanhot Airport goes as smoothly as possible, use these proven tips. They will help save time, stress, and money, making the start or end of your trip more comfortable.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Ulanhot Airport is not among China's largest aviation hubs, so queues are usually shorter here. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight departure and 2.5-3 hours before an international one. This time is sufficient to calmly complete check-in, drop off luggage, and pass pre-flight security. If possible, complete online check-in — this will save you time at the airport.

Passing Control and Seat Selection. Keep your passport and boarding pass handy. When passing through security, be prepared to remove electronics and liquid containers from your carry-on luggage. Regarding seat selection on the plane: a window seat (A, F) offers beautiful views, an aisle seat (C, D) allows you to stand up freely, and seats in the front of the cabin ensure a quicker exit upon arrival.

Carry-on and Customs. Standard rules for carrying liquids in hand luggage apply here as well: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent bag. It is forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances. When passing through customs control (relevant for international flights), follow the "Green Channel" if you have no goods to declare, or the "Red Channel" if you do.

Passengers with Transfers. If you have a connecting flight, verify with the airline in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. Leave a sufficient time margin between flights, especially if the transfer is organized by different airlines.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, bring an empty water bottle and fill it at a drinking fountain after the security zone. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are always higher. In case of a flight delay, contact your airline representative first. Depending on the duration of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts and documents — they may be needed to claim compensation.

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