Introduction to Zhaotong Airport
Zhaotong Airport (IATA: ZAT, ICAO: ZPZT) is a domestic airport located in the Zhaoyang District of Zhaotong, Yunnan Province, China. Situated in Taiping Street along Airport Road, the airport lies approximately 3.5 kilometers west of the city center. As a 4C domestic military-civilian combined branch airport, it operates at an elevation of 1,935.7 meters, classifying it as a plateau airport.
In 2022, Zhaotong Airport handled 247,081 passengers, a 42.6% decrease compared to the previous year, ranking it 139th nationwide. The cargo and mail throughput was 515 tons, a significant increase of 134.3%, placing it 121st in the country. The airport saw 3,728 aircraft movements, a decrease of 37.9%, ranking it 158th nationwide.
History
Zhaotong Airport has a rich history dating back to its construction in 1936 when it initially served as a military airport. In 1950, it began operating as a military-civilian airport. The airport opened for civil aviation in 1983 but ceased operations in 1986. After extensive renovations, Zhaotong Airport reopened in 1994 and has since played a critical role in regional connectivity.
Location and Accessibility
Zhaotong Airport is conveniently located 3.5 kilometers from the city center of Zhaotong, making it easily accessible by road. Its proximity to the urban area facilitates convenient travel for both local residents and visitors.
Facilities and Infrastructure
Zhaotong Airport is equipped with essential facilities designed to provide a comfortable and efficient travel experience:
Passenger Terminal: The terminal building covers an area of 1,906 square meters. It offers basic amenities such as check-in counters, security checkpoints, baggage claim areas, and comfortable waiting lounges. The terminal also includes dining options and retail shops to cater to passengers' needs.
Runway: The airport has a single asphalt runway, which is 2,600 meters long and 45 meters wide. This runway can accommodate aircraft up to the size of a Boeing 737-700. The runway is equipped with modern lighting and navigation systems to ensure safe operations.
Apron and Parking: The civil apron spans 6,600 square meters and provides two Class C aircraft parking positions, ensuring efficient handling of flights. Adequate parking facilities are available for passengers and visitors arriving by car.
Operations and Airlines
As of the summer and autumn seasons of 2023, Zhaotong Airport hosts four airlines operating eight routes to nine cities:
China Eastern Airlines (MU): Beijing Daxing, Shanghai Pudong, Kunming, Xi'an
Tibet Airlines (TV): Chengdu Shuangliu, Dali, Pu'er
China Southern Airlines (CZ): Guangzhou
Sichuan Airlines (3U): Hangzhou
