Haikou Meilan Airport Expands as Hainan's Premier Aviation Hub

Haikou Meilan International Airport (IATA: HAK) has become a vital aviation hub in Hainan since its opening in 1999. Covering an area of 1,140 hectares, it features advanced facilities and efficient throughput capabilities. In 2017, the passenger throughput reached 22.58 million, showcasing its outstanding operational capacity. The Phase II expansion plan aims to increase the annual throughput to 35 million passengers and integrate transport hubs, enhancing regional economic competitiveness.
Haikou Meilan Airport Expands as Hainan's Premier Aviation Hub

Haikou Meilan International Airport, serving as Hainan Province's primary aviation hub, has witnessed remarkable growth since its official opening on May 25, 1999. Recognized globally by its IATA code HAK , this strategic gateway not only connects southern China with Southeast Asia but has also become an increasingly popular destination for international travelers due to its prime location and expanding service capabilities.

A Modern Aviation Marvel

Over two decades of development have transformed Meilan Airport from a fledgling facility into a world-class international airport boasting state-of-the-art infrastructure. Spanning 1,140 hectares with a 4E-class flight zone, the airport accommodates large aircraft including Boeing 747-400s, a testament to its engineering excellence and continuous innovation.

World-Class Infrastructure

The airport's impressive facilities include a 3,600-meter-long, 45-meter-wide runway supported by modern taxiways, efficiently handling diverse flight operations. With a 150,000-square-meter terminal and 790,000-square-meter apron , Meilan Airport demonstrates exceptional capacity to meet growing air transport demands.

Sustainable Design Leadership

Meilan Airport incorporates cutting-edge environmental principles, featuring natural lighting and ventilation systems that create comfortable passenger spaces while reducing energy consumption. This eco-conscious approach aligns with Hainan's commitment to sustainable tourism development.

Record-Breaking Performance

The airport's operational achievements speak volumes: in 2017 alone, it handled 22.58 million passengers and 156,100 flights , ranking among China's top-performing airports. Its exceptional service quality earned multiple international accolades, including the ASQ First Place award (2018) in the 15-25 million passenger category.

Safety Excellence

Meilan Airport's commitment to safety is underscored by its Airport Excellence in Safety certification from ACI, providing travelers with unparalleled peace of mind through rigorous security protocols and operational standards.

Ambitious Expansion Plans

The ongoing second-phase expansion project will introduce a new 3,600-meter runway and 296,000-square-meter Terminal 2 , targeting annual passenger capacity of 35 million by 2025 . This development will integrate air, rail, and road transport, positioning Hainan as a premier regional transportation hub.

Future Vision

Looking ahead, Meilan Airport aims to evolve beyond traditional aviation services, developing into a comprehensive economic zone encompassing air logistics, aircraft maintenance, and manufacturing . This transformation will enhance Hainan's global connectivity while delivering superior travel experiences for business and leisure passengers alike.

As Hainan accelerates its internationalization, Meilan Airport remains committed to its core principles of "Safety First, Service Supreme" , driving regional economic growth while solidifying its reputation as a world-class aviation gateway that showcases Hainan's unique charm to global travelers.