China to Build the World’s Largest Airport on an Artificial Island

China is adding another remarkable airport to its aviation infrastructure by constructing the world’s largest airport on an artificial island. The “Dalian Jinzhou Bay International Airport,” located off the country’s northeastern coast, is set to cover a 20-square-kilometer island with four runways and a 900,000-square-meter terminal, according to an airport statement.

The project is expected to handle 80 million passengers annually across 540,000 flights.

According to CNN, the airport’s first phase is scheduled to open in 2035. Once completed, it will surpass Hong Kong International Airport and Japan’s Kansai Airport as the largest airport on an artificial island.

The site was chosen in 2003, but significant construction only began a few years ago. China aims to outpace the U.S. as the world’s largest air travel market.

Li Xiang, Chief Engineer at the Dalian Airport Development and Construction Company, stated: “The construction process faced significant challenges due to the complex geological conditions and difficult excavation requirements within a tight deadline.”

China opened Beijing’s second airport on October 1, 2019, marking the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic. Officials predict the country will need 450 airports by 2035 to meet demand.