The airport in China's northwest city of Dunhuang started its expansion project on December 29, which is expected to greatly boost its tourism industry.

Located at the juncture of Gansu and Qinghai provinces and the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Dunhuang was a hub of western and oriental cultures on the ancient Silk Road.

A famous ancient city, Dunhuang boasts many famous cultural spots, including some named on the World Heritage List.

In recent years, the city has received more and more tourists from Asia and other parts of the world, averaging 500,000 visitors a year.

However, the existing airport has hindered development of the city's tourism.

With an investment of 340 million yuan (41 million US dollars) , the expanded project is expected to be finished in 2002. By then, the airport will be able to handle jets such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus 320, and to accommodate 300,000 passengers and 3,400 tons of goods and mail yearly.