Northwest China's premier gateway to Central Asia and beyond.
Opened
1936
Location
Ürümqi, China
Ürümqi Tianshan International Airport (IATA: URC, ICAO: ZWWW) is the primary commercial airport serving Ürümqi, the capital of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in northwestern China. It is one of the busiest airports in western China and serves as a critical hub connecting the region to domestic destinations across China as well as international routes into Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
The airport has undergone significant expansion over the years to accommodate growing passenger traffic driven by increased tourism and trade along the revived Silk Road economic corridor. A major new terminal, Terminal 3, was opened to handle the rising demand, and the airport was rebranded with the 'Tianshan' name to reflect its regional identity. In 2023, it was officially renamed Ürümqi Tianshan International Airport.
With its strategic geographic position, the airport plays an important role in China's Belt and Road Initiative, facilitating cargo and passenger movements between China and neighboring countries in Central and West Asia.
Terminals
The airport operates multiple terminals including the newer Terminal 3, which handles the majority of domestic and international flights.
Getting to & from
The airport is connected to downtown Ürümqi via the Ürümqi Metro Line 2, as well as taxis, ride-hailing services, and airport shuttle buses.
Airlines here
China Southern Airlines and China Eastern Airlines are major carriers operating here, alongside Xinjiang Airlines, Air Astana, and various Central Asian carriers.
Notable facts
- ›One of the busiest airports in western China by passenger volume.
- ›Renamed Ürümqi Tianshan International Airport in 2023 from its previous name Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport.
- ›Serves as a key hub for routes to Central Asian countries including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan.
- ›Located approximately 16 kilometers northwest of downtown Ürümqi.
- ›Plays a significant role in China's Belt and Road Initiative as a gateway to Central and West Asia.
This profile is provided for general information only. Details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airport's official website before acting on them.
