Introduction to Urumqi Diwopu International Airport
Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (IATA: URC, ICAO: ZWWW) is a major aviation hub located in Urumqi, the capital city of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in northwest China. Serving as a critical gateway between China and Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, the airport plays a vital role in connecting diverse regions through air travel. It is one of China's two national gateway hub airports, along with Kunming Changshui International Airport.
History and Development
Established in 1939, Urumqi Diwopu International Airport has undergone significant expansions and renovations to accommodate growing air traffic and enhance passenger services. The airport has developed from a modest regional airstrip into a modern international airport with state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure.
Location and Accessibility
Urumqi Diwopu International Airport is located in Diwopu, northwest of Urumqi's city center, approximately 16.8 kilometers away. This strategic location makes it accessible and convenient for passengers traveling to and from Urumqi.
Facilities and Services
Urumqi Diwopu International Airport boasts comprehensive facilities designed to ensure a comfortable and efficient travel experience for passengers:
Terminal Buildings: The airport has three terminals: Terminal 1 (T1), Terminal 2 (T2), and Terminal 3 (T3), with a total area of 185,000 square meters. These terminals are equipped with modern amenities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and information desks.
Runways: The airport features a single runway, 3,600 meters long, equipped with advanced navigation and lighting systems to support operations in various weather conditions. Despite having only one runway, it is the busiest single-runway airport in China.
Cargo Facilities: Urumqi Diwopu International Airport has a cargo terminal covering 60,000 square meters, supporting its significant role in air freight operations.
Passenger and Cargo Traffic
As a major transport hub in northwest China, Urumqi Diwopu International Airport handles significant passenger and cargo volumes:
Passenger Traffic: The airport can accommodate an annual passenger throughput of 17.3 million people. In 2024, the airport's passenger throughput surpassed 10 million, reaching 10.01 million by May 27, with a year-on-year increase of 17.6%.
Cargo Operations: The airport supports an annual cargo and mail throughput of 275,000 tons. In 2024, the cargo volume reached 65,000 tons, marking a significant 40.8% increase compared to the previous year.
Connectivity and Transportation
Urumqi Diwopu International Airport is well-connected to the city and surrounding regions through various transportation options:
Public Transport: Multiple bus routes link the airport to Urumqi's city center and other key locations, providing an affordable and convenient travel option for passengers.
Rail Connections: The airport is accessible via the Urumqi Metro, which connects it to major railway stations and urban areas, ensuring seamless connectivity for travelers.
Road Infrastructure: Extensive road networks and expressways facilitate easy access to and from the airport for passengers traveling by car or taxi.
Domestic and International Reach
Urumqi Diwopu International Airport operates 231 scheduled routes, including 20 international passenger routes, 207 domestic passenger routes, 3 domestic cargo routes, and 1 international cargo route. It connects Urumqi with 13 international cities, 70 domestic cities outside Xinjiang (including 1 Hong Kong-Macau-Taiwan city), and 22 cities within Xinjiang.
Conclusion
Urumqi Diwopu International Airport stands as a testament to the rapid development of China's aviation industry. With its strategic location, modern facilities, and comprehensive services, the airport is a pivotal gateway that connects Urumqi to the world. As it continues to expand and evolve, Urumqi Diwopu International Airport will play an increasingly important role in facilitating international travel and trade, driving economic growth, and fostering regional connectivity.
