On Aug 12, Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport celebrated its third anniversary of operation, marking a period of remarkable development. 

Over the past three years, Qingdao airport has remained focused on its goal of becoming a world-class international hub. Capitalizing on the recovery of the civil aviation market, the airport has achieved a number of significant milestones. During its first calendar year of operation in 2022, the airport handled 9.72 million passengers and 220,000 metric tons of cargo and mail. The following year, 2023, saw substantial growth, with 21.42 million passengers and a record 260,800 tons of cargo and mail processed.

In 2024, the airport continues on a strong growth trajectory. From January to July, it recorded 112,700 aircraft takeoffs and landings, 15.06 million passengers, and 160,400 tons of cargo and mail, reflecting year-on-year increases of 18 percent, 28 percent, and 16 percent, respectively.

An aerial view of Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Since opening, Qingdao airport has accelerated the development of a robust route network, enhancing the city's connectivity both domestically and internationally. By the end of 2023, the airport operated 243 passenger routes, an increase of 11 since 2021, with its three-hour flight radius covering 90 percent of China's provincial capitals and major cities, as well as destinations in Japan and South Korea.

Safety remains a top priority, with the airport implementing rigorous safety systems, advancing risk management, and strengthening operational oversight. In 2023, the airport achieved a departure punctuality rate of 93.38 percent, the highest in East China, and began simultaneous dual-runway operations.

Air logistics at Qingdao airport are developing rapidly. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Additionally, the Qingdao airport has positioned itself as a gateway to local culture and tourism by integrating its aviation and tourism resources. The airport offers travelers a range of one-stop services, including tourism consultation, reception, and customized products, which have significantly boosted visitor numbers and driven growth in the aviation sector.

The terminal at Qingdao airport is bustling with passengers. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Looking ahead, Qingdao airport will continue to push forward with reforms and innovations, contributing to the opening-up of Qingdao and Shandong province and driving the high-quality development of the civil aviation industry.