Core Viewpoint - The construction of airports in small cities is seen as a significant step towards enhancing regional connectivity and economic development, despite challenges in maintaining passenger flow and financial sustainability [1][4][16]. Group 1: Airport Development in Small Cities - Many small cities are entering the "aviation era," with new airports being planned or constructed, such as the upcoming Hegang Luobei Airport in Heilongjiang, which aims to enhance local transportation and tourism [2][9]. - The number of small airports in China is substantial, with 186 airports having an annual passenger throughput of less than 2 million, accounting for 70.7% of all airports [4][14]. - The construction of Hegang Airport is part of the national "14th Five-Year Plan" for civil aviation development, with a design capacity of 450,000 passengers annually [4][5]. Group 2: Economic Impact and Challenges - Airports can significantly boost local economies, with cities hosting airports experiencing GDP growth rates higher than the national average [10][16]. - However, small airports face challenges in attracting sufficient passenger traffic, often competing with other transportation modes, such as rail [3][15]. - The financial viability of small airports is a concern, as many require government subsidies to operate, especially those with lower passenger throughput [15][16]. Group 3: Regional Development and Industry Integration - Airports are crucial for improving transportation infrastructure, which can enhance a city's development potential and living experience for residents [7][9]. - The integration of airports with local industries, such as tourism and resource extraction (e.g., graphite in Hegang), is essential for maximizing their economic benefits [12][13][18]. - The development of airports is aligned with broader regional transportation plans, aiming to improve connectivity across provinces and enhance economic collaboration [9][14].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emerging trend of small cities in China, such as Hegang, building airports to enhance transportation and stimulate local economies, despite challenges related to population size and financial sustainability [1][5][9]. Summary by Sections Airport Development in Small Cities - Hegang, a city known for its low housing prices, is set to build an airport, with plans for it to be operational by 2027 [3][9]. - Other small cities are also experiencing a surge in air travel, with significant increases in flight bookings during the summer [1][5]. Economic Implications - The construction of Hegang Airport is part of a broader strategy to diversify the local economy, which has been historically reliant on dwindling resources [5][9]. - The airport is expected to facilitate better connectivity, potentially boosting tourism and local industries, including the emerging graphite sector [18][19]. Challenges and Considerations - Small airports face difficulties in attracting sufficient passenger traffic, often competing with other forms of transportation [5][9]. - Hegang's airport is designed for a capacity of 450,000 passengers annually, which raises concerns about financial viability and the need for government subsidies [22][24]. Regional Transportation Strategy - The airport is part of a larger plan to improve transportation infrastructure in Heilongjiang Province, aiming to enhance regional connectivity and economic development [14][21]. - The construction cost of the airport is significantly lower than that of high-speed rail, making it a more feasible option for small cities [12][21]. Impact on Local Economy - Airports can have a multiplier effect on local economies, with studies indicating that cities with airports tend to experience higher GDP growth compared to those without [14][24]. - The integration of air travel with local industries, such as tourism and resource extraction, is crucial for maximizing the benefits of the new airport [25].