China is constructing the world’s largest artificial-island airport to establish Dalian as a key regional transportation hub. The Jinzhouwan International Airport, spanning an impressive 20 square kilometers, will surpass notable airports like Hong Kong International Airport and Japan’s Kansai Airport, according to the Liaoning provincial government.
The project is a strategic investment aimed at enhancing trade, logistics, and tourism, particularly with neighboring countries such as Japan and South Korea.
Key Features of Jinzhouwan International Airport
The Jinzhouwan Airport is set to become a revolutionary infrastructure project:
- First of its kind in mainland China, built entirely on an artificial offshore island.
- Four runways and a massive terminal spanning 900,000 square meters.
- Initial capacity to handle 43 million passengers annually, with plans to expand to 80 million passengers per year.
- Capable of managing 1 million tonnes of cargo annually upon full operation.
The total cost of the project is estimated at $4.3 billion, with completion expected by 2035.
Strategic Importance of Dalian
Situated on a peninsula at the northern end of the Bohai Strait, Dalian is a key port city in northeastern China. It has evolved into a hub for:
- Oil refineries and shipping
- Logistics and trade
- Coastal tourism
With a population of over 6 million people, Dalian’s strategic location makes it an essential point for trade with Japan and South Korea.
Replacing the Existing Airport
The current Dalian Zhoushuizi Airport, built under Japanese occupation nearly a century ago, has reached its capacity limits. Challenges with its location—situated in a valley surrounded by mountains—have made flying risky during adverse weather.
“Its location could make flights quite dangerous,” said aviation consultant Li Hanming.
The new Jinzhouwan Airport will address these issues and offer a safer, state-of-the-art alternative.
Challenges of Island Airports
While island airports provide innovative solutions, they come with unique challenges:
- Risk of isolation due to single bridge connections to the mainland.
- Vulnerability to earthquakes, typhoons, or ship collisions.
Experts caution that these factors must be addressed to ensure long-term success.
China’s Infrastructure Boom
China continues to invest aggressively in its infrastructure. According to the CAPA Centre for Aviation, as of July 2024, the country has 22 new airports under construction, collectively valued at $19.6 billion.
Transforming Regional Connectivity
The Dalian Jinzhouwan International Airport is a groundbreaking project that will:
- Strengthen air connectivity across the region.
- Solidify Dalian’s role as a major hub for air transport and trade.
- Boost economic growth by supporting tourism, logistics, and industrial development.
China’s ambitious vision for the Jinzhouwan International Airport highlights its commitment to revolutionizing regional connectivity and advancing infrastructure development. Upon completion, this world-class airport will reshape Dalian’s future as a global transportation and trade hub.
