Core Viewpoint - The completion and operation of the Xining Caojiabao International Airport Phase III expansion project marks a significant milestone in the development of civil aviation in Qinghai, enhancing the province's connectivity and supporting its economic growth [1][3]. Group 1: Project Overview - The Xining Airport Phase III expansion project officially opened on August 7, 2023, after five years of construction [1]. - The total investment for the project is 10.712 billion yuan, with 9.983 billion yuan allocated for airport engineering [6]. - The project includes the construction of a new 158,000 square meter T3 terminal, a second parallel taxiway, a 173,000 square meter comprehensive transportation center, and a 18,800 square meter cargo area [6]. Group 2: Economic Impact - The expansion is expected to significantly boost passenger and cargo traffic, with annual passenger volume projected to reach 8.5 million and cargo volume 40,000 tons, representing a 15-fold and 7-fold increase respectively compared to pre-restructuring levels [4]. - The project aims to support Qinghai's goal of becoming a high-level open economy and a hub for ecological civilization [3]. Group 3: Strategic Goals - The Western Airport Group is committed to enhancing the air transport network, focusing on the Xining-Xi'an air express line, improving domestic transfer flights, and expanding international connections [4]. - The project is aligned with the national strategy for high-quality economic development and aims to establish a safe, green, smart, and culturally rich airport [3][4]. Group 4: Technological Innovations - The construction utilized advanced technologies, including BIM (Building Information Modeling), to optimize processes and reduce costs, achieving over ten provincial and ministerial awards for its innovative approaches [5][6]. - The project faced unique challenges due to geological conditions and required the application of 31 new technologies and 12 provincial construction methods [5].

Core Viewpoint - Qinghai's aviation industry is experiencing explosive growth in passenger transport due to its favorable climate and tourism resources, with the new T3 terminal at Xining Caojiabao International Airport set to enhance aviation capacity and mark a new phase in the province's civil aviation development [1][4]. Group 1: Aviation Growth - In July, Qinghai's civil aviation transport volume has been rising continuously, with multiple indicators reaching historical highs [4]. - Qinghai's air transport capacity growth rate ranks first among all provinces in China, with flights to 67 cities and new routes to 11 tourism potential cities [4]. - The provincial capital, Xining Airport, executed 9,700 flights and transported 1.28 million passengers, with year-on-year growth of 19% and 15.5%, respectively, leading among airports with over 5 million passengers [4]. Group 2: T3 Terminal Features - The T3 terminal has a total construction area of 158,000 square meters and is considered a milestone project for Qinghai's civil aviation development [5]. - The terminal incorporates advanced construction technologies and design elements that reflect local culture, such as the "Qinghai Lake Ripples" design concept and various regional cultural symbols [5][6]. - Key areas within the terminal are scientifically laid out to enhance aviation transport efficiency and service quality, promising a modern travel experience [6]. Group 3: Operational Transition and Events - The T3 terminal will officially open on August 7, 2023, with a complete transition of VIP services to the new terminal [7]. - During the opening period, Qinghai Airport Company will host various cultural and tourism events to provide additional benefits for travelers [7].