Nalati Airport

Nalati Airport (NLT) is the aerial gateway to one of the most picturesque regions of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Located near the city of Xinyuan, this airport serves as a key point for travellers aiming to see the famous Nalati Grasslands. It plays a significant role in the development of tourism in China, providing convenient access to the natural beauty and unique culture of this land. Although the airport is not among the largest in the country, its modern infrastructure and strategic location make it indispensable for thousands of tourists.

The main advantage of Nalati Airport is its immediate proximity to the tourist zone of the same name, renowned for its alpine meadows and breathtaking landscapes. This makes it the ideal starting point for a journey through the region, saving tourists time on long overland transfers. The airport primarily serves domestic flights, connecting Xinyuan with major cities in China. Despite its modest size, it offers passengers essential services, including ticketing, information desks, and options for arranging transfers or car rentals, ensuring a comfortable start and end to your trip.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Nalati Airport (NLT). Please note that the airport is domestic, and most information resources are presented in Chinese.

• Official Website: Nalati Airport is part of the Xinjiang Airport Group. Official information is available on the relevant corporate webpage: www.xjairport.com/nalati.html.
• Information Desk Phone: For information regarding flights, services, and general inquiries, you can call: +86 999 529 1222.
• Airport Address: The airport is located approximately 12 km from the Nalati tourist centre and 58 km from the city of Xinyuan. Official address: Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China.
• Email: A dedicated email address for passenger communication is not published. For urgent matters, it is recommended to use the telephone.
• Social Media: The airport does not have official accounts on popular international social networks.
• Lost and Found Information: For all inquiries related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the baggage tracing service via the information desk number: +86 999 529 1222.
• Customer Support: For consultations and support regarding any issues, please use the main airport inquiry number.

There are several ways to reach Nalati Airport (NLT), located near the city of Xinyuan. The best choice depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and comfort preferences. In general, transport accessibility to the airport is well-organised, which is typical for infrastructure in China.

Public Transport is the most economical method. Dedicated shuttle buses run from the centre of Xinyuan to the airport. their schedule is usually coordinated with arriving and departing flights. This is a convenient and inexpensive option, but it is worth checking the current schedule and departure point in advance, as these may change. The bus journey will take slightly longer than a taxi due to stops.

Taxi or Private Transfer is a faster and more comfortable way to reach the terminal. Cars can be found at designated stands in the city or booked via an app. The trip from the centre of Xinyuan to Nalati Airport usually takes about 60-80 minutes. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus, but for travellers with bulky luggage or families with children, this may be the best solution. It is recommended to agree on the price with the driver in advance or ensure the taximeter is switched on.

Car Rental offers maximum freedom of movement, especially if you plan to explore the scenic surroundings, such as the famous Nalati Grasslands. Car rental counters operate at the airport and in the city. Please note that driving in China may require an International Driving Permit and its notarised translation into Chinese. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, parking is available where cars can be left for short or long periods.

Nalati Airport (NLT) is a small and modern regional air hub characterised by a simple and clear structure. It operates one passenger terminal serving all domestic flights. Thanks to its compactness, navigating the building will not cause difficulties even for first-time visitors.

All airport infrastructure is located within a single building, making movement through it quick and convenient. The terminal layout is logical: immediately after entering the main hall, you will see the check-in counters and baggage drop-off points. After completing registration, passengers proceed to the security screening area, beyond which lies a small waiting hall with boarding gates. The Arrivals Zone is located in a separate part of the terminal and includes the baggage claim belt and the exit to the general hall for greeters.

Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between terminals. All procedures take place within a unified space. Check-in and security screening at Nalati Airport usually take little time — on average about 30-40 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport generally 1.5-2 hours before departure to complete all formalities without rushing. Signs in the building are in Chinese and English, which simplifies navigation for international tourists.

Nalati Airport (NLT) is a relatively young but strategically important air hub, the history of which is closely linked to the development of tourism in the region. Its construction began in 2004, and as early as July 2005, the airport received its first flights. The main goal of creating the airport was to provide convenient access to one of the main natural gems of China — the scenic Nalati Grasslands, located near the city of Xinyuan.

Initially, Nalati Airport was designed as a seasonal facility, serving tourists primarily during the summer months when the region's nature is revealed in all its glory. Since its opening, it has played a key role in increasing tourist flow, making the remote mountain areas of Xinjiang accessible to travellers from across the country and abroad. It was one of the first airports in the country built specifically to serve a tourist zone.

A key stage in the airport's development was a large-scale reconstruction and expansion, completed in 2018. As part of this project, a new, more spacious terminal was built, and the runway was extended. Modernisation allowed for a significant increase in the airport's capacity and the ability to accept larger aircraft types. These improvements prepared the air harbour for a new wave of growth in the region's popularity.

Today, Nalati Airport is a prime example of how modern infrastructure can facilitate tourism development. Although it still retains its seasonal operational character, its history is that of a successful project that opened a unique corner of nature to the world, turning it into a popular tourist destination and giving a powerful boost to the local community's economy.

Nalati Airport (NLT) is a small regional airport serving a popular tourist area. Despite its modest size, it provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal features several dining outlets where you can have a snack with local and Chinese dishes, as well as enjoy coffee or tea. Additionally, there are small shops selling souvenirs, snacks, and travel essentials.

Standard waiting lounges are equipped for passengers. While the airport may not have large and luxurious business lounges like international hubs, a small VIP lounge is often available for passengers with eligible tickets. Typically, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are installed in waiting areas so you can stay connected before departure.

Regarding financial services, ATMs are usually available at the airport. However, currency exchange points may be absent or have limited operating hours, so it is recommended to exchange money in advance in larger cities. A medical point operates in the terminal to provide emergency assistance.

Nalati Airport strives to be convenient for all categories of travellers. A mother and child room may be provided for passengers with small children. Passengers with reduced mobility are offered staff assistance, and the terminal infrastructure is equipped with ramps and special restrooms to ensure a barrier-free environment.

There are no hotels within the airport building itself; however, many accommodation options can be found in the nearby city of Xinyuan and in the Nalati tourist zone. Specialised conference halls or business centres are absent at the airport, as it is primarily oriented towards tourist traffic. For business meetings, it is better to utilise the infrastructure of hotels in the region.

Nalati Airport (NLT) is a compact regional airport serving mainly tourist flows. Dining options here correspond to its size: do not expect a huge food court like in metropolises, but having a snack or a full lunch before departure is quite possible.

All catering establishments are concentrated in the airport's single terminal. Generally, the main selection is found in the public area before security control (landside), where small cafes are located. After screening (airside), in the departure zone, a kiosk with drinks and light snacks usually operates.

This is an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with local cuisine. In the cafes, you can find dishes of the Xinjiang culinary tradition. Pay attention to the hearty Lagman (hand-pulled noodles with meat and vegetables) or the aromatic Pilaf. For a quicker snack, local flatbreads, pastries, sandwiches, as well as hot tea or coffee are suitable. Prices are generally moderate for an airport.

Regarding special dietary needs, the selection may be limited. Vegetarians might have to choose from side dishes or vegetable salads if they are on the menu. Specialised vegan or gluten-free dishes are unlikely to be available. Many local dishes are prepared with lamb, which may suit tourists looking for Halal-friendly options, but it is better to clarify details on the spot. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is more reliable to bring food with you.

Opening hours of establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule: they open a few hours before the first departure and close after the last plane takes off. For a full meal, it is better to visit the cafe in the general hall, while the outlet in the departure zone is suitable for buying water or snacks for the journey.

Travelling through Nalati Airport in Xinyuan will be easier if you consider a few tips. Since this is a small regional airport in China, arriving 3-4 hours before departure is not required. For domestic flights, which make up the bulk of the schedule, arriving 1.5-2 hours in advance is usually sufficient. This time is enough to go through all procedures without rushing. If possible, complete online check-in for your flight — this will save you time at the airport.

Security services in Chinese airports work very thoroughly. Be prepared that you may be asked to switch on electronic devices. Special attention is paid to external batteries (power banks) — the capacity must be clearly indicated on them, otherwise, they may be confiscated. Carrying batteries is permitted only in carry-on luggage. Also, remember standard restrictions on carrying liquids (up to 100 ml in one container, with a total volume of no more than 1 litre per passenger) and sharp objects.

When choosing a seat on a plane departing from Xinyuan, it is worth preferring a window seat. The airport is located in a scenic valley, and in good weather, breathtaking views of the Tian Shan mountains will open up to you. If comfort and the ability to stand up freely are more important to you, choose an aisle seat. Customs control at Nalati Airport is undergone only by passengers of international flights, which are practically non-existent here. For flights within the country, there is no customs check.

If you have a connection planned, check in advance whether you need to collect and re-register your luggage at the intermediate airport. Leave a sufficient time margin between flights, especially if flying with different airlines. To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled at special fountains after passing security control, and a light snack.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline's counter. Representatives should provide information about the new departure time, and for long delays — provide drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation in accordance with the carrier's rules. Stay calm and clarify all options available to you.