Nan Fang Du Shi Bao·2025-12-09 03:17Core Viewpoint - The expansion and upgrade of the three major international aviation hubs in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) - Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong - signify a shift towards a collaborative network that enhances the overall regional aviation capacity and efficiency, moving into a "3.0 era" characterized by high quality, high efficiency, and high collaboration [1][2][3]. Group 1: Infrastructure Expansion - The three major hubs have completed their runway expansions, with Shenzhen Airport's third runway operational since December 6, 2023, handling over 200 flights in its first week [1][3]. - Guangzhou Baiyun Airport has become the first in China to operate five commercial runways, with its new T3 terminal capable of accommodating an annual passenger throughput of 120 million, and a terminal capacity of 140 million [2][3]. - Hong Kong Airport's three-runway system, fully operational by 2024, is expected to handle 120 million passengers and 10 million tons of cargo annually [3]. Group 2: New Routes and Connectivity - Guangzhou Baiyun Airport has launched new intercontinental routes to Madrid and Darwin, enhancing its position as a key aviation hub connecting China to Europe and Oceania [2][3]. - The "seamless transfer" service between Shenzhen and Hong Kong airports allows passengers to transit without re-entering immigration, significantly improving travel efficiency [5][6]. Group 3: Economic Drivers - The upgrades in the GBA airports are driven by the region's vibrant economy and the specific demands of high-value industries such as electronics, biomedicine, and cross-border e-commerce [7][8]. - The total air cargo volume of the three major airports reached 9.2 million tons in 2024, accounting for 7.2% of the global total, positioning them among the top 20 global cargo airports [7][8]. Group 4: Emerging Economic Zones - The GBA is developing multiple high-end industrial clusters around its airports, including logistics, aircraft maintenance, and high-end manufacturing [8][9]. - The focus on enhancing airport functionalities aims to attract more high-value industries and services, contributing to regional economic growth [9]. Group 5: Competitive Dynamics - The GBA airports face challenges in collaborative development due to overlapping service areas and competition for international routes and cargo resources [10]. - Differentiated positioning is essential, with Guangzhou focusing on Southeast Asia and Oceania, Shenzhen on technology and high-end manufacturing, and Hong Kong on maintaining its global network advantage [10]. Group 6: Future Outlook - By 2035, the GBA is projected to meet an aviation passenger demand of 420 million, necessitating the current infrastructure developments to support global connectivity [11]. - The enhanced airport network is expected to attract multinational companies and elevate the GBA's status in the global economic landscape [11].