Modern terminal building of Xining Caojiabao International Airport with mountain backdrop and drop-off zone at golden hour.

Airport

Xining Caojiabao International Airport (XNN)

Xining Caojiabao International Airport is the main air gateway to Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province, and the wider Qinghai-Tibet Plateau region. Compare transfer options to central Xining, Qinghai Lake, Kumbum Monastery and nearby destinations, and plan your onward journey with ease.

Passengers

Luggage

About Xining Caojiabao International Airport

Xining Caojiabao International Airport is the main international airport serving Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province, and a key aviation gateway to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau region. Opened in 1991, it has grown into an important hub for domestic routes and a limited number of international and regional connections.

Located in Haidong, about 28 km southeast of central Xining, the airport sits at an elevation of around 2,184 m, giving it high-altitude operating characteristics. In August 2025, the new Terminal 3 opened and became the base for all domestic flights, while Terminal 1 continues to handle international and regional services.

The airport is connected to Xining by road and airport bus, with taxis, ride-hailing, private transfers, chauffeur services and car rental available for onward travel to the city centre and destinations across Qinghai.

With modern passenger facilities, dining, shopping, lounges and ground transportation options, Xining Caojiabao International Airport serves as a practical gateway for travelers exploring Xining, Qinghai Lake and the surrounding plateau region.

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Terminal Overview

Travelers walking beneath terminal signs inside an airport

Terminals

Xining Caojiabao International Airport operates passenger services through Terminal 3 and Terminal 1. Terminal 3 opened on 7 August 2025 and handles all domestic flights, while Terminal 1 serves international and regional flights; Terminal 2 is currently not used for passenger operations.

Ground Transportation Services to and from Xining Caojiabao International Airport

Transfers

Book private transfers from Xining Caojiabao International Airport to central Xining, hotels, Qinghai Lake, Kumbum Monastery and other destinations across Qinghai.

Hourly Chauffeur

Arrange a professional chauffeur by the hour for flexible travel from Xining Caojiabao International Airport, business meetings, events or journeys around Xining.

Car Rental

Rent a car from Xining Caojiabao International Airport for independent travel around Xining and onward journeys across Qinghai Province.

Bus & Group Transfers

Organize minibuses or charter buses for groups travelling between Xining Caojiabao International Airport, hotels, event venues and destinations such as Qinghai Lake.