Airports are usually the place you catch a plane to fly you high into the sky – but what if you’re already there?
Situated at 4,411 metres (14,472 feet) above sea level, the Daocheng Yading Airport in China is the world’s highest airport.However, its high altitude has left people literally gasping for air.
A TikToker, @aligoodguy, shared a video of himself wearing an oxygen mask outside the terminal. At this elevation, the air contains significantly less oxygen, which can lead to symptoms of altitude sickness such as dizziness, headaches and shortness of breath.
Due to its location, visitors are advised to acclimatise and take precautions against altitude sickness. The airport’s operations can be affected by extreme weather, so flexibility in travel plans is also recommended.
Sucking oxygen helps passengers adjust to the low oxygen levels, reducing the risk of discomfort or health issues before and during their flight.
The airport lies in the Tibetan Plateau region, surrounded by breathtaking mountainous landscapes. Officially opened in September 2013, it was aimed to enhance accessibility to the remote but increasingly popular tourist destination.
It offers flights to major Chinese cities like Chengdu, Chongqing, Xi’an and Kunming, making it easier for tourists to reach this isolated region.
Primarily built to boost tourism to the Yading Nature Reserve, the airport also plays a role in regional economic development.
The airport serves the county of Daocheng and provides access to the stunning Yading Nature Reserve, often referred to as “the last Shangri-La.”
Daocheng Yading Airport provides oxygen lounges and portable oxygen supplies to assist passengers in coping with the altitude.
Travellers are advised to spend time acclimatizing at the airport or in the surrounding area before the flight and to drink plenty of water, as dehydration can worsen altitude sickness symptoms.
Passengers should avoid alcohol as it can exacerbate the effects of high altitude and dehydration.
