Airports and Altitude
Airports are crucial in facilitating air transportation across the world. However, not all airports are created equal, with some located at higher altitudes than others. Altitude refers to the height of a location above sea level, and it determines the atmospheric conditions, which can affect aviation operations. High-altitude airports, in particular, pose unique challenges to aircraft and their passengers. In this article, we explore the world’s highest airport and its features.
Understanding Altitude Measures
Altitude measures differ in different regions of the world. For instance, in the United States, altitude is measured in feet above sea level, while in other countries, it may be measured in meters. Altitude also affects the atmospheric pressure, temperature, and the amount of available oxygen, all of which can affect the airplane’s performance. As altitude increases, the air becomes thinner, meaning that aircraft engines may no longer produce the same amount of power, and the airplane may not be able to climb, accelerate, or maintain speed at altitude.
The Search for the World’s Highest Airport
Many airports around the world are located at high altitudes, but which one is the highest in the world? The search for the world’s highest airport has been ongoing for many years. Some airports claim to be the highest, but they may not have the official certification to support their claims. However, over the years, official sources such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) have confirmed the altitude of some airports, including the highest one.
Winner: Daocheng Yading Airport
The title of the world’s highest airport goes to the Daocheng Yading Airport in China, which sits at an altitude of 4,411 meters (14,472 feet) above sea level. The airport is located in the Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Western Sichuan Province in China. It was opened in September 2013, and it has since facilitated air transportation to various destinations within China, including Chengdu, Chongqing, and Guangzhou.
Location and Elevation of Daocheng Yading
The Daocheng Yading Airport is located in a mountainous region, surrounded by the Hengduan Mountains, which are part of the eastern Himalayas. The airport is situated about 50 kilometers (30 miles) from the town of Daocheng and 130 kilometers (80 miles) from the Yading Scenic Area. The altitude of the airport makes it one of the highest-altitude airports in the world. The airport covers an area of 21.2 square kilometers and has a single runway that is 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) long.
Challenges in Building and Operating High Airports
High-altitude airports such as Daocheng Yading pose significant challenges during construction and operation. The thin air at high altitudes affects the construction process, meaning that the materials used to build the airport must be sturdy enough to withstand the harsh conditions. Additionally, aircraft that operate from high-altitude airports may require additional preparation, such as fueling and weight adjustments, to ensure safe takeoffs and landings.
Daocheng Yading’s Unique Features and Facilities
The Daocheng Yading Airport has several unique features and facilities that cater to passengers’ needs. The airport’s terminal building covers an area of 10,910 square meters and has a capacity of handling 280 passengers per hour. The airport also has a parking lot that can accommodate up to 200 cars. Additionally, the airport has a taxiway, a navigation system, and a weather forecasting station to ensure safe flights.
Flight Operations at Daocheng Yading
Aircraft operations at high-altitude airports such as Daocheng Yading require careful planning and execution. Pilots must be aware of the atmospheric conditions and plan their flights accordingly. Additionally, aircraft taking off from high-altitude airports may require longer runways and more thrust to lift off the ground. Furthermore, aircraft landing at high-altitude airports may experience longer braking distances due to the reduced air pressure.
Other High-Altitude Airports Worth Mentioning
Apart from the Daocheng Yading Airport, there are other high-altitude airports worth mentioning. These include the Qamdo Bamda Airport in Tibet, China, which sits at an altitude of 4,334 meters (14,219 feet) and the El Alto International Airport in Bolivia, which sits at an altitude of 4,061 meters (13,325 feet). Both airports are located in mountainous regions and pose unique challenges to aircraft and passengers.
Future of High-Altitude Airports
As air travel continues to expand, the need for high-altitude airports is expected to increase. However, building and operating such airports will require significant investment in infrastructure and technology. Governments and industry stakeholders must work together to ensure that high-altitude airports are safe and efficient for passengers and airlines.
Conclusion: The Importance of High Airports
High-altitude airports play a crucial role in facilitating air travel across the world. They pose unique challenges to aircraft and passengers, but they also offer unique experiences and views of the surrounding mountainous regions. The Daocheng Yading Airport in China is currently the highest-altitude airport in the world, but other airports such as Qamdo Bamda and El Alto International Airport are also worth mentioning. Investing in high-altitude airports will not only improve access to remote regions but also stimulate economic growth in these areas.
References and Further Reading
- China Daily. (2013). Daocheng Yading Airport opens in remote western China. Retrieved from
- Civil Aviation Administration of China. (2013). Daocheng Yading Airport. Retrieved from
- Forbes. (2018). The World’s Highest Airports. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/dominicdudley/2018/07/30/the-worlds-highest-airports/?sh=1f9b9c6c2d93
- International Civil Aviation Organization. (2013). Daocheng Yading Airport. Retrieved from
