
Core Insights - The article highlights the rapid development of Ezhou Huahu International Airport, which has become a significant cargo hub in China, surpassing Zhengzhou Airport to become the top cargo airport in Central China [4][6][10]. Group 1: Airport Development - Ezhou Huahu International Airport is the world's fourth and Asia's first dedicated cargo hub, with a projected cargo throughput of 865,186.8 tons in 2024, marking a 252.7% increase from the previous year [4][7][10]. - The airport aims to reach a cargo throughput of 2.45 million tons by 2025 and 3.3 million tons by 2030, with expectations to rank among the top three cargo airports in China in the coming years [9][10]. Group 2: Economic Impact - The establishment of the airport has led to significant economic growth in the region, attracting over 96 projects with a total investment of 108 billion yuan by 2024 [37]. - Ezhou has become a logistics hub, with over 80 logistics companies, including major players like JD.com and YTO Express, setting up operations at the airport [37][41]. Group 3: Strategic Location - Ezhou's geographical advantages allow it to cover major economic regions in China, including the Yangtze River Delta and the Pearl River Delta, facilitating next-day delivery services to a vast population [20][22]. - The city boasts a comprehensive transportation network, including deep-water ports and rail connections, enhancing its logistics capabilities [20][21]. Group 4: Partnerships and Collaborations - SF Express has partnered with the Ezhou government to develop the airport, which has led to the fastest approval and construction timelines in Chinese civil aviation history [25][26]. - The airport has attracted global companies, including eight Fortune 500 firms, establishing regional centers to leverage the logistics capabilities offered by the airport [39]. Group 5: Future Prospects - The airport is positioned to become a global supply chain center and high-end processing hub, with plans to enhance cross-border e-commerce capabilities by 2025 [41][42]. - Ezhou's development is compared to Memphis, USA, indicating a shift in how cities can leverage logistics hubs for economic growth [33][46].