Xining Airport

Xining Caojiabao Airport (Xining Caojiabao) is not just a transport hub, but the main aerial gateway to the amazing Qinghai Province and the vastness of the majestic Tibetan Plateau. Opened in 1991, this high-altitude airport has become a key point for travellers seeking to explore the "Roof of the World". It connects this unique region with the major cities of China and select international destinations, offering passengers breathtaking views of mountain landscapes even before landing.

Xining Airport is constantly being upgraded for passenger comfort. The complex includes two terminals: Terminal 2 (T2), which serves most domestic flights, and Terminal 1 (T1) for international and regional flights. Thanks to a 3,800-metre runway, the airport is capable of handling various types of aircraft. For the convenience of travellers, everything necessary is available here: from cafes and shops to comfortable rest areas, making the wait for a flight as pleasant as possible.

For the most up-to-date information regarding the operations of Xining Caojiabao Airport (XNN), flight schedules, and services, you can use the following contact details:

• Official website: Generally, detailed information can be found on the official website of the managing company, Western Airport Group: www.westaport.com/xnn/
• Information desk phone: To clarify information about flights, services, or to contact airport representatives, you can call: +86-971-813-3333.
• Airport address: Huzhu Tu Autonomous County, Haidong, Qinghai, China.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is usually not provided. It is recommended to contact via phone or feedback forms on the official website.
• Lost & Found: For issues related to lost or damaged items, please contact the relevant service via the main airport phone number.
• Social Media: For news and updates, you can follow the airport's official accounts on popular Chinese social networks, such as Weibo.

Getting to Xining Caojiabao Airport (XNN) from the city of Xining is possible in several ways, allowing you to choose the best option depending on budget, time, and preferences. The airport is located approximately 30 kilometres east of the city centre, and the journey usually does not take much time.

Public Transport: Shuttle Buses

The most economical and popular way to get to the airport is via specialized Airport Shuttle Buses. There are several routes connecting the airport with key points in the city, including the central railway station and major hotels. This is a reliable and budget-friendly option.

• Travel time: About 45-60 minutes, depending on the route and traffic conditions.
• Cost: Usually around 20-25 RMB. Tickets can be purchased immediately before boarding.
• Recommendation: An excellent choice for solo travellers and those travelling light. Check the schedule in advance, as it may change depending on the season and time of day.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services

A taxi is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach the airport. Traveling directly from your hotel to the terminal saves time and effort. In China, ride-hailing services such as Didi Chuxing are also widely used.

• Travel time: Approximately 30-40 minutes excluding traffic jams.
• Cost: A taxi ride from the city centre will cost approximately 80-120 RMB. It is recommended to ensure the driver turns on the meter, or agree on a price in advance if using an unofficial taxi.
• Recommendation: The ideal option for families, travellers with a lot of luggage, or those rushing for a flight.

Car Rental and Parking

If you plan to actively travel around Qinghai Province, renting a car can be a great solution. You can rent a car both in the city and directly at the airport upon arrival. The road to the airport is well-marked with signs. Xining Caojiabao Airport has a parking lot offering both short-term and long-term parking options for private vehicles. This is convenient if you are arriving in your own transport or seeing someone off.

The Xining Caojiabao Airport (XNN) features a modern and clear structure consisting of two passenger terminals — T1 and T2. They are located in close proximity to each other, which simplifies navigation and movement between them.

Terminal 2 (T2) is the main and largest terminal at the airport. It serves most domestic and all international flights. It is a modern building with a thoughtful layout: the departure area with numerous check-in counters and security checkpoints is on the upper level, while the arrival area with baggage claim belts is on the lower level. The main infrastructure is concentrated in T2: shops, restaurants, cafes, business lounges, and currency exchange points. The terminal's architecture and clear signage system in Chinese and English make orientation inside quite simple.

Terminal 1 (T1) is an older and more compact building. Typically, it is used to serve some domestic flights, including those of budget airlines. The range of services here is more limited compared to T2, but due to its small size, completing all formalities may take less time.

Moving between terminals causes no difficulties — they are within walking distance. Before travelling to the airport, it is extremely important to check with your airline which terminal your flight departs from to avoid confusion.

It is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance to complete check-in and security checks. For domestic flights, allow at least 1.5–2 hours before departure, and for international flights — about 3 hours. This time is usually sufficient for a calm passage through all procedures, including passport control on international routes, and visiting shops or cafes before boarding.

Xining Caojiabao Airport (Xining Caojiabao), the main aviation hub of Qinghai Province, has a relatively young but very dynamic history, closely linked to the rapid development of western China. Its history is a story of growth and modernisation, reflecting the transformation of the city of Xining into an important tourist and economic centre of the region.

The official opening of the airport took place in 1991. It was built to replace the old Lejiawan Airport, which could no longer cope with the growing needs of the region and had runway limitations. From the very beginning, Caojiabao played a key role in ensuring transport accessibility to this high-altitude and remote region, which was previously difficult to access for many travellers and investors.

A key stage in the airport's development was a major reconstruction and expansion completed in 2013. As part of this project, a new modern terminal (T2) was built, and the runway was significantly lengthened, allowing it to accommodate larger long-haul aircraft. It was after this modernisation that the airport received international status and began serving flights outside China, which was a real breakthrough for the entire province.

Interesting fact: being one of the highest altitude airports in the world (located at an altitude of over 2,100 metres above sea level), Caojiabao requires special skill from pilots and special technical characteristics from aircraft for takeoff and landing in thin air conditions. Today, the airport continues to grow: the construction of the third phase is underway, including a new, even larger Terminal 3 (T3), indicating its strategic importance and big plans for the future.

Xining Caojiabao Airport (XNN) offers passengers a modern and comfortable environment with a full range of services to make waiting for a flight as pleasant as possible. Regardless of the purpose of your trip, you will find everything you need for rest, work, or preparation for further travel here.

For those who are hungry, the terminal has numerous restaurants and cafes offering both local cuisine and familiar international snacks. In the shops, you can purchase souvenirs, travel goods, and regional products. For those wishing to rest in a quieter setting, premium lounges and VIP areas are open, where you can relax in comfortable chairs and enjoy complimentary beverages and press.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous gadget charging stations will allow you to always stay connected. For financial matters, bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points are provided. If necessary, passengers can contact the medical centre for first aid.

The airport is well-equipped for travellers with special needs. For passengers with children, there are special nursery rooms. Passengers with disabilities are provided with staff assistance, and the terminal infrastructure includes ramps, elevators, and specially equipped restrooms. For business travellers, conference rooms may be available, and those needing extended rest can stay at one of the hotels located in the immediate vicinity of the airport.

At Xining Airport (XNN), passengers will find various dining options suitable for both a quick snack and a full lunch or dinner while waiting for a flight. Catering establishments are located in the main terminal, both in the public area (before security control) and in the departure area (after control).

For those who want to enjoy local cuisine, the airport has restaurants offering dishes from Qinghai Province and other regions of China. This is a great opportunity to try the famous hand-pulled noodles (Lamian) or lamb dishes, which are the hallmark of regional gastronomy. Such establishments are ideal for a leisurely meal and full immersion in local culture before departure.

If you are short on time or prefer more familiar food, cafes and fast food outlets are at your service. Here you can order coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and standard international dishes. These establishments are usually located in both the arrival and departure zones, making them especially convenient for transit passengers.

Regarding dietary restrictions, most Chinese restaurants have vegetarian dishes based on vegetables and tofu on the menu. However, finding certified Halal, vegan, or gluten-free options might be challenging, so it is recommended to clarify the ingredients with the staff. The price range in airport establishments varies from moderate in food courts to higher in full-service restaurants, which is standard practice for airports.

Most cafes and restaurants operate according to the flight schedule — from early morning until late evening. For a quick snack, cafes in the departure area are best suited, while for a full lunch in a quiet atmosphere, restaurants located in the public part of the terminal before security control are recommended.

Planning a trip through Xining Airport? To ensure your journey goes smoothly and without unnecessary stress, use our tips. These recommendations will help you better navigate the airport and save time and nerves.

Arrival time at the airport: To avoid rushing, arrive at the airport well in advance. For domestic flights within China, it is recommended to arrive 2 hours before departure, and for international flights — at least 3 hours. This will give you enough time to calmly complete check-in, baggage drop-off, and security control, especially during periods of high traffic.

Check-in and security control: Have your passport and boarding pass ready. The screening procedure at Chinese airports can be very thorough. Be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and portable power banks from your carry-on luggage for separate scanning. Following the rules will help speed up the process.

Seat selection: Want to enjoy views of the picturesque landscapes of Qinghai? Choose a window seat. If the ability to stand up and leave freely without disturbing neighbours is important to you, your choice is an aisle seat. Emergency exit seats offer more legroom, but airlines often charge an additional fee for them.

Carry-on luggage rules: Pay special attention to the contents of your carry-on luggage. Strict rules apply in China: it is strictly forbidden to bring any lighters or matches on board. Portable power banks are allowed only in carry-on luggage; their capacity must be clearly marked on the casing and must not exceed the limits set by the airline (usually 100 Wh).

Transit passengers: If you have a connecting flight in Xining, check with the airline in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. As a rule, when transferring from an international flight to a domestic one, this is a mandatory procedure. Ensure you have enough time between flights to complete all formalities.

Customs control: When entering or leaving the country, be prepared for customs inspection. If you are carrying goods subject to declaration or large sums of cash, use the "Red Channel". Familiarize yourself with current customs regulations to avoid misunderstandings.

Saving time and money: Check in for your flight online to avoid standing in line at the counters. Travelling with only carry-on luggage will save you money on baggage fees and time waiting for it upon arrival. Bring an empty water bottle with you — after security, you can fill it at special drinking water dispensers available in most Chinese airports.

In case of flight delay: If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the duration of the delay, you may be entitled to drinks, meals, or hotel accommodation. Keep all documents and receipts — they may be useful for claiming compensation under travel insurance.