As air travel continues to connect the world, airports play a crucial role in facilitating global mobility. However, some airports operate under extreme conditions, situated at breathtaking altitudes where thin air and challenging weather conditions pose unique challenges for pilots and engineers alike. In this article, we delve into the realm of high-altitude aviation to explore the top ten highest altitude airports in the world as of 2024.
Highest Altitude Airport in the World 2024
As of 2024, Daocheng Yading Airport (DCY) in China remains the world’s highest-altitude airport, situated at 4,411m elevation. It serves as the vital link to the stunning Yading Nature Reserve, just 6km away. With a single runway stretching 4,200m long and 45m wide, and a compact 5,000m² terminal, the airport operates under special protocols due to its extreme altitude. Aircraft adhere to reduced speeds during takeoff and landing, while passengers are encouraged to acclimate to the high altitude beforehand.
Top-10 Highest Altitude Airports in the World By 2024
Daocheng Yading Airport of China, with the altitude of 14,472 feet, holds the distinction of being the highest altitude airport in the world, followed by Bangda Airport, Kangding Airport and Ngari Gunsa Airport.
Here is the list of top-10 highest altitude airports in the world by 2024:
| Highest Altitude Airports in the World By 2024 | |||
| Rank | Airport | Location | Altitude (in ft.) |
| 1. | Daocheng Yading | China | 14,472 |
| 2. | Bangda | Tibet, China | 14,219 |
| 3. | Kangding | China | 14,042 |
| 4. | Ngari Gunsa | China | 14,022 |
| 5. | EI Alto International Airport | Bolivia | 13,356 |
| 6. | Captain Nicolas Rojas International Airport | Bolivia | 12,923 |
| 7. | Yushu Batang Airport | China | 12,815 |
| 8. | Inca Manco Capac International Airport | Peru | 12,552 |
| 9. | Shigatse Peace Airport | China | 12,402 |
| 10. | Syanboche Airport | Nepal | 12,402 |
World’s Highest Airport – Daocheng Yading Airport
Location: China
Altitude: 14,472 feet
Since 2013, Daocheng Yading Airport in China has claimed the title of the highest airport globally, standing at an altitude of 4411 meters above sea level. Its runway stretches 4,200 meters long and 45 meters wide, while the terminal covers 5000 square meters, notable for its UFO-like design. This airport serves as a remarkable feat of engineering amidst the challenging high-altitude terrain of the Tibetan Plateau.
Second Highest Altitude Airport of the World – Bangda Airport
Location: China
Altitude: 14,219 feet
The second-highest airport globally is Bangda Airport, located in Qamdo, Tibet, at an elevation of 4,334 meters above sea level. Renowned for its extraordinary altitude, it features the world’s longest publicly used paved runway, stretching 5,500 meters. This extensive runway is vital to accommodate large aircraft, compensating for reduced engine and aircraft performance during takeoff and landing at such extreme altitudes.
Third Highest Airport in the World – Kangding Airport
Location: China
Altitude: 14,042 feet
The third-highest airport globally is Kangding Airport in China, nestled in the western province of Sichuan. Situated at 4,280 meters above sea level, it stands as a testament to engineering at extreme altitudes. Kangding Airport serves as a crucial gateway to the region, facilitating air travel amidst challenging mountainous terrain. Its strategic location aids in connecting travelers to the picturesque landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau.
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