Introduction to Beijing’s Airports
As the capital of China, Beijing is home to a number of airports that serve millions of passengers each year. These airports cater to both domestic and international flights, making them vital to the country’s tourism and business industries. In this article, we will take a closer look at which airport is the largest in Beijing and what it has to offer.
History of Airports in Beijing
The first airport in Beijing, Nanyuan Airport, was built in 1910 and served as a military base for the Chinese Air Force. In 1958, Beijing Capital International Airport was established as the main airport serving the city, and it became the busiest airport in China by 2009. In 2019, a new airport, Beijing Daxing International Airport, opened to alleviate congestion at Beijing Capital International Airport.
Comparison of Airport Sizes in Beijing
Beijing Capital International Airport covers an area of 1,480 hectares, while Beijing Daxing International Airport covers a larger area of 1,470,000 square meters. Despite the difference in size, both airports are significant players in the aviation industry and serve as major hubs for airlines based in China and around the world.
Largest Airport in Beijing
The largest airport in Beijing is Beijing Daxing International Airport, which is located in the southern suburbs of the city. This airport was designed by the late British architect Zaha Hadid and can accommodate up to 100 million passengers per year. It has four runways and a terminal building that spans over 700,000 square meters.
Beijing Capital International Airport
Beijing Capital International Airport is located in the northeastern suburbs of Beijing and is the second-largest airport in the city. It has three terminals and two runways, with a capacity to handle 82 million passengers per year. The airport is a major hub for China’s flag carrier, Air China, and is served by over 100 airlines from around the world.
Facilities at Beijing’s Largest Airport
Beijing Daxing International Airport boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a 5G network, an automated baggage system, and a terminal building that is designed to maximize passenger efficiency. The airport also features a range of dining and shopping options, as well as a hotel and conference center.
Airlines Operating at Beijing’s Largest Airport
Beijing Daxing International Airport is home to several airlines, including China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, and Xiamen Airlines. It also serves as a hub for many international airlines, such as British Airways, Finnair, and Malaysia Airlines.
Passenger Traffic at Beijing’s Largest Airport
Beijing Daxing International Airport opened in September 2019 and saw its first full year of operation in 2020. Despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global travel, the airport still managed to handle over 10 million passengers in its first year. This number is expected to increase as travel restrictions are lifted and air travel resumes to pre-pandemic levels.
Conclusion: Which Airport is the Largest in Beijing?
In conclusion, Beijing Daxing International Airport is the largest airport in Beijing, covering a vast area and boasting world-class facilities. While Beijing Capital International Airport is also a significant player in the aviation industry, Beijing Daxing International Airport is the newest and most modern airport in the city. Regardless of which airport travelers choose, they can expect a seamless and convenient travel experience in the bustling capital of China.
