The cargo charter flight. [Photo/Hohhot commerce bureau]

On April 17, the Hohhot-Ulaanbaatar-Istanbul international cargo charter flight took off from Hohhot Baita International Airport in North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region, marking the official resumption of cargo charter flights between Hohhot, Mongolia, and Turkiye in 2024.

Operated by MIAT Mongolian Airlines and utilizing a B757-200F freighter, this cargo charter flight carried approximately 27 metric tons of goods, including LCD screens, printers, and medical equipment. This route will operate three times weekly, departing from Hohhot and landing in Ulaanbaatar and then Istanbul.

The Hohhot municipal bureau of commerce has been actively promoting the resumption of cargo charter flights to Ulaanbaatar and Istanbul this year. Efforts included collaboration with airlines, discussions with airport customs and border control for solutions, cooperation with international freight companies for market development purposes, and increased promotional activities. Additionally, as of April 17, Hohhot Airport has resumed cargo flights to Mongolia.

Next, the bureau plans to further expand its international cargo charter flight network. Leveraging Hohhot Baita International Airport's status as a designated site for inspecting imported fresh and frozen products, they aim to develop cargo-carrying services on international passenger routes. These initiatives aim to attract more international cargo airlines, contributing to Hohhot's role as a key gateway in China's northern opening-up strategy.