
Core Viewpoint - The establishment of the joint venture company for the Nantong New Airport indicates a strategic move to enhance Shanghai's international aviation hub status, with significant involvement from Shanghai Airport Group and local government [4][6]. Group 1: Company Formation and Structure - The newly formed Nantong New Airport Construction Investment Co., Ltd. is primarily engaged in civil airport operations and construction, with Shanghai Airport Group holding a 51% stake and Nantong Urban Construction Group holding 49% [3][4]. - The joint venture's establishment highlights Shanghai Airport's leading role in the development of the Nantong New Airport, often referred to as "Shanghai's third airport" [4][6]. Group 2: Airport Development and Planning - The Nantong New Airport is planned to have two long-distance runways and a terminal capable of handling 40 million passengers annually, with future expansion potential to accommodate 80 million passengers [9]. - The airport's location is approximately 100 kilometers from both Shanghai Hongqiao and Pudong airports, necessitating effective transportation network planning to integrate the three airports [6][9]. Group 3: Strategic Importance and Market Potential - Major airlines, including Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines, are proactively planning operations at the Nantong New Airport, recognizing its potential for local passenger traffic and spillover from Shanghai [9]. - The Long Triangle region already has seven major airports, and the development of Nantong New Airport is part of a broader strategy to optimize airport operations and enhance regional aviation competitiveness [10]. Group 4: Regional Collaboration and Integration - The establishment of the Nantong New Airport aligns with the Yangtze River Delta regional integration plan, which aims to create a coordinated airport system to avoid redundancy and improve efficiency [10]. - The East Airport Group's acquisition of several regional airports indicates ongoing efforts to streamline airport management and enhance service capabilities across the region [10].