To strengthen the regional aviation network and cater to the travel surge during the 2026 Winter-Spring season, Dunhuang Mogao International Airport officially resumed its vital Hangzhou–Lanzhou–Dunhuang route on January 1. By February 2026, the service has become a cornerstone of the airport's schedule, providing a reliable and efficient connection for travelers looking to bridge the gap between the lush landscapes of East China and the golden sands of the Northwest.
The service is operated by Sichuan Airlines using the versatile Airbus A320 aircraft. Under flight numbers 3U3193 and 3U3194, the schedule is fixed for every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. This strategic timing allows both business travelers and tourists to plan flexible mid-week or weekend excursions, ensuring that the ancient wonders of the Silk Road are never more than a few hours away.
With the addition of this route, Dunhuang Mogao International Airport has significantly boosted its frequency to Lanzhou, now offering up to seven flights daily. This high-density "shuttle" style service drastically improves the convenience of transfers at Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport. It effectively creates a high-speed aerial bridge, linking the economic engine of the Yangtze River Delta directly with the historical heart of the Silk Road.
The resumption of this flight path is a key initiative in Dunhuang’s broader strategy to integrate "Aviation + Culture & Tourism." By connecting the economic hub of Hangzhou with the cultural treasury of Dunhuang, the route offers a streamlined path for visitors. Tourists from the Yangtze River Delta can now enjoy significantly reduced travel times when visiting world-renowned heritage sites such as the Mogao Caves and the Mingshashan Crescent Spring.
Beyond tourism, the flight serves as a vital commercial artery. It establishes a dedicated aerial corridor that allows Dunhuang’s specialized local products and rich cultural resources to flow more easily into the national market. This increased accessibility fosters a deeper economic exchange between the coastal regions and the inland Northwest, supporting local industries and cultural preservation efforts alike.
Looking toward the future, Dunhuang Airport intends to keep a close watch on passenger demand to further optimize its network layout. By deepening strategic partnerships with major carriers like Sichuan Airlines, the airport aims to continuously refine its operational efficiency and ground service standards. The ultimate goal is to evolve into a premier regional aviation hub that supports the high-quality socioeconomic development of the region.
As we move through February 2026, this air link stands as a testament to the growing synergy between China’s modern economic centers and its historical landmarks. It ensures that the spirit of the Silk Road remains accessible to all, providing a modern-day caravan route through the clouds that is as efficient as it is inspiring.
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