Recent reports show that operations at China’s hub airports experienced a surge throughout the first half of 2024.

Experts at China’s Development Research Centre of the State Council pointed out that the ongoing recovery of the Chinese aviation industry stems from the better than usual performance of the national economy.

Likewise, as the nation’s macroeconomic state improves, the integrated development of the aviation sector and the deep integration of related industries can further stimulate demand.

An influx of foreign guests

Key airports also noted an increase in international passenger trips, which have been supported by the Chinese government’s efforts to promote international exchanges. These initiatives have included visa-free entry for certain partner nations, as well as well-staged tourism campaigns.

Approximately 14.64 foreign travellers entered China’s airports over the past six months, up by 152.7 percent year-on-year. According to the National Immigration Administration, 8.54 million of these entered visa-free.

Gradual recovery

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in southern China, in particular, noted that its operations increased gradually over the last six months. Guangdong Province’s key international hub clocked 248,000 flights, up by 15.17 percent from June 2023.

Passenger throughput for the Guangzhou airport also increased by 26.67 percent from last year, manifesting as 36.65 million individual travellers between January and June.

This upsurge has been attributed to greater demand in the aviation sector which has risen gradually over the past two years.