China has earmarked RMB64 billion (US$9.3 billion) for air cargo development, including a new airport for Beijing. In all, the government intends to build 97 new airports, consolidate smaller airports and upgrade others, according to a master plan drafted by the newly formed Ministry of Transport.
Major hubs will be upgraded and airport ‘clusters’ will be built in the northern, eastern, central, southern, south-western parts of the country according to their function and size after integration.
Total airport numbers will rise to 192 by 2010 and to 244 by 2020. The 244 airports will be categorised into five groups with different functions.
Beijing is also slated get another airport after 2010 and its existing Capital International Airport will be upgraded to an international hub.
Pudong International Airport in Shanghai and New Baiyun International Airport in Guangzhou will be upgraded to international air cargo hubs.