Located in Kuqa County of Aksu Prefecture in China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Kuqa Qiuci Airport stands as a crucial regional civil aviation facility. Situated at the central point connecting Kuqa, Xayar, and Xinhe counties, approximately 38 kilometers from Kuqa's urban center, the airport is operated by Aksu Prefecture while receiving industry oversight from civil aviation authorities.
Historical Significance and Modern Development
With origins dating back to 1937, Kuqa Qiuci Airport holds the distinction of being one of Xinjiang's earliest airfields. However, operational challenges led to its closure on September 14, 1998. After extensive planning and significant investment, construction on a new airport facility commenced on June 25, 2009, with total funding reaching 340 million yuan. The modernized Kuqa Qiuci Airport officially opened for service on September 7, 2011.
Technical Specifications and Capacity
At an elevation of 1,074 meters (3,524 feet) above sea level, the airport features:
- A 2,600-meter runway capable of handling Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 series aircraft, including 737-800 models
- A 5,100-square-meter terminal building
- Annual capacity for 240,000 passengers and 270 tons of cargo
Classified as a 4C-level airport in China's civil aviation system, the facility boasts comprehensive infrastructure including air traffic control systems, fuel supply, power generation, heating, water supply, fire protection (rated at level 6), security, landscaping, and environmental protection measures.
Regional Impact and Service Area
Kuqa Qiuci Airport serves not only its namesake county but also provides vital transportation links to surrounding areas including Xayar, Xinhe, Baicheng, and Luntai counties. The facility's 40-kilometer service radius encompasses approximately 700,000 residents, catering to:
- Three county-level administrative centers
- Five industrial parks
- Three major oil and gas fields
The airport's primary route currently connects Kuqa with Ürümqi, with passenger traffic primarily consisting of petroleum industry personnel, tourists, and government officials.
Economic and Social Benefits
Multiple carriers including China Southern Airlines, Tianjin Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, and Hainan Airlines operate at Kuqa Qiuci Airport, offering diverse travel options for residents and visitors alike. The airport's operations have significantly improved regional transportation networks, yielding several key benefits:
- Enhanced commuting for residents of eastern Xinjiang counties
- Optimized investment climate through improved accessibility
- Accelerated development of Kuqa's petrochemical industry
- Growth in regional tourism
- Improved living standards for ethnic minority communities
By reducing the development gap with China's more prosperous eastern regions, Kuqa Qiuci Airport has emerged as a catalyst for economic progress while simultaneously strengthening national unity, maintaining social stability, and supporting national defense objectives. The facility stands as a testament to the transformative power of regional aviation infrastructure in driving comprehensive socioeconomic development.
