Turpan Jiaohe Airport – the lowest airport in the world in terms of elevation – will be put into operation on May 18, according Xinjiang Airport Group on Friday.

The airport sits only 50 kilometers away from Aydingkol Lake, world's second lowest depression, 154 meters lower below sea level. 　

The airport started construction on May 6, 2009 with a total investment of 436 million yuan. The new airport can accommodate large airplanes like Boeing 737 and Airbus 320. It is the nearest alternative airport from Urumqi.

Once it is up and running, it will greatly ease the pressure of a large number of flight delays caused by fog and snow at Urumqi airport in winter. Furthermore, it will become an important feeder airport of eastern Xinjing.

Xinjing has 14 airports now. By the end of 2015, the number will reach 21 and Xinjing will become the province with the most airports in China.

By People's Daily Online