A Game-Changer for Plateau Air Travel
On December 26, at 10:17 am, Lhasa Gonggar International Airport marked a historic moment with the seamless landing of Air China flight CA4401 from Chengdu on its second runway. This achievement solidifies Lhasa Gonggar’s position as the first plateau airport in the country to operate with dual runways, revolutionizing air travel on the Tibetan Plateau.
Dual Runway Operation: Elevating Lhasa Gonggar Airport’s Status
With the commencement of the second runway, Lhasa Gonggar International Airport proudly joins the league of the sixth trunk airport with dual runways in Southwest China. This milestone not only enhances its significance as an essential hub but also strengthens its role as the “air lifeline,” “transportation guarantee line,” “national unity line,” and “social progress line” in Tibet.
Lhasa Gonggar International Airport: A Crucial Gateway
Situated in Gonggar County, Shannan City, Tibet Autonomous Region, Lhasa Gonggar International Airport has been a vital hub since its opening in 1966. Boasting 168 air routes and connecting 73 cities, it plays a crucial role in the aviation network, emphasizing the southwest and northwest regions of China. In 2023, the airport anticipates exceeding 5 million passenger throughput and over 45,000 guaranteed aircraft takeoffs and landings.
Challenges Overcome: The Path to Dual Runways
The Tibet Regional Bureau of Civil Aviation tackled various challenges during the project, including high groundwater levels, braided rivers, and harsh climatic conditions. Employing digitalization and intelligence, the construction prioritized a smart runway at high altitudes, leading to the successful completion of tasks ahead of schedule.
Construction Journey: From Planning to Operation
The journey to the second runway began in August 2017, with a comprehensive plan to increase annual passenger throughput to 12 million by 2030. The project, amounting to a total investment of 4.28 billion yuan, included a new 4,000-meter-long and 45-meter-wide runway, a parallel taxiway, navigation aids, lighting systems, and more. After four years of meticulous planning and overcoming challenges, construction officially commenced on April 26, 2022. The runway was fully connected by August 1, 2023, with a successful test flight on October 19, leading to completion acceptance and industry approval on December 12.
Paving the Way for Plateau Aviation
The successful operation of the second runway at Lhasa Gonggar International Airport is not just a feat in aviation infrastructure; it is a testament to resilience and determination in the face of challenging conditions. This achievement will undoubtedly elevate Tibet’s air connectivity, making Lhasa Gonggar a key player in the country’s aviation landscape.
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