为啥全国猛建高铁，偏偏新疆押注民航？

Core Viewpoint - Xinjiang has officially opened its 28th civil airport, the Barkol Dahu Airport, reinforcing its position as the province with the most airports in China [2][8]. Group 1: Airport Development - Xinjiang's civil transport airport count has increased to 28, making it the region with the most airports in China [2]. - The region's vast area of 1.6649 million square kilometers necessitates a robust airport network to connect distant cities [3][6]. - The average distance between cities in Xinjiang is significant, with travel times drastically reduced by air travel compared to road travel [7][8]. Group 2: Economic Implications - The construction of airports is seen as a strategic choice for "large space governance," addressing the challenges of high costs and limited returns associated with high-speed rail in the region [9][10]. - The cost of building a high-speed rail line in Xinjiang is significantly higher than that of constructing airports, making airports a more viable option for connectivity [12][14]. - In 2024, Xinjiang's civil aviation passenger throughput is projected to reach 48.54 million, nearly matching the railway's 50.07 million [18]. Group 3: Tourism and Trade - The increase in airports has enhanced tourism in Xinjiang, facilitating seamless connections between airports and tourist attractions [19][20]. - In the first quarter of this year, Xinjiang's airports handled 75,000 tons of cargo, marking a 48.51% year-on-year increase, with international cargo volume surging tenfold [23][24]. - Xinjiang's airports are becoming crucial for foreign trade, with 34 international cargo routes established, covering 19 countries [24][25]. Group 4: Future Outlook - By the end of the 14th Five-Year Plan, the number of civil transport airports in Xinjiang is expected to reach 33 [26]. - The new northern terminal at Urumqi Airport will have an annual capacity of 63 million passengers, positioning it as a key transit hub between Central Asia and Europe [27]. - The introduction of 50 C909 aircraft by 2026 will further enhance Xinjiang's air route network [28].