New, modern terminal of Pyongyang Intl Airport put into use

A general view of the newly built terminal of Pyongyang International Airport is seen in this undated picture released by DPRK's Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on July 1, 2015. [Photo/Agencies]

Bus and taxi hailing services are provided on the first floor. There is a currency exchange booth with exchange rates between several major currencies displayed on a screen on the wall, but the staff told Xinhua that the exchange service is not yet ready for passengers.

Passengers who just arrive here are allowed to purchase a SIM card capable of 3g network services and domestic phone calls, but the SIM card operated by Koryolink is only valid within the visitor's staying period. Visas are often checked for confirmation on how long one stays in the country.

For short-term visitors, it is suggested that they buy a SIM card that is effective for one week.

Around 4 pm, passengers started to check in on the second floor for an Air China plane bound for Beijing. There are 12 counters in all, but only two are open for use, one for economy class and the other for business class. Passengers' luggage are not under intense scrutiny by the crew.

However, for international arrivals the entry inspection is more strict. Passengers are asked to register their cellphone type and the number of cellphones they carry with them. Laptops and other electronic devices like Kindle are also required to be opened for check.

Recently the DPRK foreign ministry has delivered a note to all diplomatic missions and global organizations in Pyongyang to inform that the DPRK will take more strict measures to prevent circulation of some unfavorable publications in the country.