Core Insights - The article discusses the challenges faced by small airports in China, particularly regarding low passenger traffic and flight frequency, which affects operational efficiency and cost management [2][3][4] - It highlights the efforts by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) to promote connecting flights and integrate air and rail transport to enhance accessibility and increase passenger flow to small airports [3][4][5] Group 1: Small Airport Challenges - Many small airports, like Anyang Hongqiqu Airport, experience low flight frequency and limited routes, with only six routes and an average of three to four flights per day [1][2] - As of 2024, 33% of China's 263 airports have passenger traffic below 300,000, indicating a significant challenge in attracting travelers [2] - The current air route network in China is characterized by a dense trunk line system and sparse branch lines, with branch airports accounting for 70.7% of the total but only 9.5% of passenger flights [2][3] Group 2: Solutions and Innovations - The CAAC is promoting connecting flights to link trunk and branch lines, which has shown to significantly increase passenger transport volume from branch airports [3] - The integration of air and rail transport, as demonstrated by the Ordos Airport's 40% increase in passenger traffic, is a promising strategy for enhancing accessibility to small airports [3][4] - Airlines are exploring new models, such as the "Cloud Bus" service by Huaxia Airlines, which connects hub cities with branch airports, improving efficiency and passenger flow [4] Group 3: Industry Collaboration and Development - The integration of aviation with tourism is proving effective in attracting passengers, as seen with the Sanqing Mountain Airport, which has maintained high growth rates through combined travel packages [5] - The development of small airports relies heavily on local government funding and must adapt to local characteristics while promoting collaboration with various industries for sustainable growth [5]