Hohhot Shengle International Airport completed its first comprehensive drill on April 18, testing airport facilities, operational procedures, service support, and coordinated response capabilities ahead of its operational transition.

Staff members simulate passengers entering the terminal. [Photo/Hohhot Convergence Media]

Following a series of preparatory milestones, including flight calibration, airfield acceptance, test flights, industry inspections, and approval for aviation port opening, Hohhot Shengle International Airport – the first 4F-class international airport in Inner Mongolia and a regional aviation hub – is steadily advancing toward operational readiness.

The drill was jointly organized by Inner Mongolia Civil Aviation Airport Group and 11 on-site units and airlines, with 1,161 personnel participating in support operations.

The exercise simulated 28 flight movements, comprising 26 domestic and two international flights, 3,987 passenger trips, 884 pieces of luggage, 30 taxis, and 1.5 metric tons of cargo.

Staff members simulate passengers entering the terminal. [Photo/Hohhot Convergence Media]

Centered on six core workflows – aircraft operations, passenger processing, baggage handling, cargo transport, information systems, and ground transportation – the drill covered 31 exercise scenarios.

To replicate routine operations, the airport simulated a balanced mix of elderly and child passengers, along with special travel scenarios such as unaccompanied minors, wheelchair users, visually impaired travelers, and first-time flyers. The drill tested services for special passengers, peak traffic management, emergency response, and end-to-end service assurance capabilities.

The entire drill lasted four hours, validating integrated support capabilities, optimizing operational workflows, and providing practical experience for a smooth airport launch, successfully achieving its objectives. It marks the transition into a critical phase of commissioning preparations.

Staff members simulate passengers entering the terminal. [Photo/Hohhot Convergence Media]