The expanded Dunhuang Airport in northwest China's Gansu Province passed its acceptance check Thursday and is already in operation.

With its new runway measuring 2,800 meters long and 48 meters wide, the expanded airport can accommodate 20 flights a day and handle a cargo volume of 3,400 tons.

Beginning on July 6 last year, the runway project was completed on August 20. Other projects will be done by July 2002.

The project cost 320 million yuan (around US$ 38.55 million).

With the world-famous Mogao Grottoes located in Dunhuang, the improved airport will greatly boost the local tourism industry, experts believe.

(Xinhua 09/27/2001)