Urumqi Air

Urumqi Air is a low-cost airline in the Hainan Airlines group, based in Ürümqi and flying across Xinjiang and to cities throughout China. It flies Boeing 737s and COMAC C909 regional jets, and announced plans for Kazakhstan routes in 2026. This guide covers routes, baggage, China’s power bank rules, tips for flying in Xinjiang and how Urumqi Air compares with Lucky Air and West Air.

Urumqi Air was founded in 2014 and is part of the Hainan Airlines group. It is based in Ürümqi, the capital of Xinjiang, China’s largest region, where flying is often the fastest way to cover huge distances.

Power Bank Rules on Urumqi Air

Urumqi Air follows China’s rules plus the ICAO rules in force since 27 March 2026:

• On flights within mainland China, power banks must show a clear 3C (CCC) mark, as well as their brand, model and capacity; unmarked units are confiscated at security.
• Up to 100 Wh is allowed; 100–160 Wh needs the airline’s approval; over 160 Wh is banned.
• A maximum of two power banks per passenger, in cabin baggage only, never in checked bags.
• No charging power banks, or devices from them, during the flight.

Visa-Free Transit via Ürümqi

Citizens of more than 50 countries, including most of Europe, the US, Canada, the UK and Australia, can use China’s 240-hour visa-free transit when flying on to a third country with a confirmed onward ticket. Check the latest list before you book.

Flying in Xinjiang

• Security checks at Xinjiang airports, stations and some hotels take longer, so arrive early and keep your passport handy.
• Flights run on Beijing time, although Xinjiang informally uses local time two hours behind.
• Some foreign apps don’t work in China, so download offline maps and a translation app.
• Distances are huge, so allow time for road travel after landing.

How to Find Cheap Flights to Xinjiang

• Avoid Chinese New Year and the October Golden Week.
• Visit in late spring or early autumn.
• Book summer trips early.
• Compare fares on Chinese travel apps.
• Compare airlines: use the FlightSelects flight search to see Urumqi Air next to Lucky Air, West Air and others.

Urumqi Air vs Lucky Air vs West Air

Three Hainan Airlines group low-cost airlines.

See our Lucky Air guide and West Air guide to compare.

Arriving in Ürümqi

Tianshan Airport is about 17 km north of the city. Metro Line 1, buses and taxis link it with central Ürümqi.

You can also book an airport transfer in advance at a fixed price.

Is Urumqi Air a Good Airline?

Yes, as a budget way to reach and cross Xinjiang. Compare the total price after bags and follow China’s power bank rules.

For more options, see our airline guides and the FlightSelects travel blog.

Facts checked in October 2026 against CAPA on the Kazakhstan route plans and China’s 2026 power bank rules. Rules change, so check the official Urumqi Air website before you travel.