Xigaze Peace Airport / Shigatse Air Base (IATA: RKZ, ICAO: ZURK) serves Xigazê (Samzhubzê), CN. It has 6 scheduled routes to 5 destinations in 1 countries, operated by 2 airlines.
- Proximity to Everest Base Camp: The airport is the closest to Everest Base Camp, making it a highly convenient option for travelers looking to reduce travel time to the famous mountain.
- Modern Facilities and Amenities: Despite its high-altitude location, the airport is equipped with modern facilities designed to meet traveler needs. Recent upgrades, completed by August 2024, included renovations to the terminal building and the addition of boarding bridges.
- Oxygen Systems for Altitude Sickness: Oxygen systems are installed within the airport to help alleviate discomfort for travelers arriving at the high elevation.
- Improved Transportation Connections: A special expressway connecting the airport to Shigatse city, opened in 2017, significantly reduced travel time to approximately 50 minutes. Airport shuttle buses and taxis are also available.
- Limited Direct International Flights: The airport primarily handles domestic flights, connecting to major Chinese cities such as Chengdu, Chongqing, and Xi'an, with no direct international routes. Foreign travelers must first arrive in mainland China and then transfer.
- High Altitude and Challenging Conditions: Situated at an elevation of 3,782 meters (12,408 ft), it is one of the highest airports in the world, which can pose challenges due to thin air and fickle weather.
- Mandatory Tibet Travel Permit: Obtaining a Tibet Travel Permit is a strict requirement for all foreign travelers flying into Tibet, and it is checked upon check-in and arrival at the airport. This process can add complexity to travel planning.
Bottom line: Xigaze Peace Airport offers a unique and increasingly accessible entry point to the Tibetan plateau, especially for those venturing to Mount Everest. While direct traveler reviews are not widely available, the focus on modernizing facilities and providing essential amenities for high-altitude travel suggests a commitment to a functional and comfortable experience, despite the logistical challenges of its remote location and specific travel regulations.
Routes from RKZ
5 nonstop destinations · 2 airlines.
Airlines at RKZ
2 carriers operate scheduled departures.
Route Network Map
Search flights from RKZ
Compare ticket prices across hundreds of booking sites
Search flights from RKZOpens a live price search from RKZ — just pick your destination & dates
Airport routes
Xigaze Peace Airport / Shigatse Air Base (RKZ) offers 6 flight routes operated by 2 airlines. Major carriers include Tibet Airlines, China Eastern and others. Popular destinations from Xigazê (Samzhubzê) include Chengdu Shuangliu Int'l, Chengdu Tianfu Int'l, Chongqing Jiangbei Int'l, Xining Caojiabu, Xi'an Xianyang Int'l.
Traveler reviews & tips
From people who've recently flown through Xigazê (Samzhubzê).
No tips for RKZ yet — be the first to help fellow travelers.
Share your tip or review
Help fellow travelers at Xigaze Peace Airport / Shigatse Air Base. Tips are reviewed before publishing.
Common questions about RKZ
Quick answers, straight from the schedule data.
How many destinations have nonstop flights from RKZ?
Xigaze Peace Airport / Shigatse Air Base has 6 scheduled routes to 5 destinations in 1 countries, operated by 2 airlines.
Which airlines fly from Xigaze Peace Airport / Shigatse Air Base?
2 carriers operate scheduled departures, including Tibet Airlines, China Eastern.
Where is Xigaze Peace Airport / Shigatse Air Base located?
Xigaze Peace Airport / Shigatse Air Base is located in Xigazê (Samzhubzê), CN, at an elevation of 3782 ft. Its IATA code is RKZ and ICAO code is ZURK.