West China's Xinjiang will build four airports during the coming five-year period, including one airport in the middle of the Taklamakan Desert.

The autonomous region's Civil Aviation Administration will build airports in Tazhong, Shache, Kroraina (Loulan) and Tumxuk.

The airport in Tazhong will be of great strategic importance for the Tarim Basin's natural gas and oil exploration and desert rescues. It also aims to increase tourism to the Taklamakan Desert.

Xinjiang will also rebuild or upgrade airports in Qiemo, Fuyun, Urumqi, Korla and Hotan.