At the foot of the majestic Jiuhua Mountain in Meilong Subdistrict, Guichi District of Chizhou City, Anhui Province, a new landmark emerges—the Chizhou Jiuhuashan Airport. This modern transportation hub serves not only as a milestone in Chizhou's development but also as a vital bridge connecting southern Anhui with the rest of China. Designed to boost regional economic growth and enhance aviation services, the airport addresses the growing demands of both tourists and business travelers.
Strategic Geographic Location
Positioned approximately 20 kilometers south of downtown Chizhou and equally distant from Jiuhua Mountain Scenic Area's Ke Village base, the airport enjoys unparalleled accessibility. Its proximity—just 3 kilometers from the Yangtze River—and location within Anhui's Southern Industrial Concentration Zone make it a crucial transportation node for both Chizhou and neighboring Tongling City.
Development Journey
Jiuhuashan Airport's development traces back to 2005 when it was included in China's Civil Aviation Airport Layout and the 11th Five-Year Plan. After years of meticulous planning, construction commenced in 2009. Overcoming numerous challenges, the airport officially commenced operations in 2013, marking a historic achievement. Throughout its development, environmental preservation remained paramount, resulting in a facility that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while delivering exceptional passenger experiences.
Facilities and Capacity
Spanning 2400 acres (approximately 160 hectares), the airport currently operates with a 4C-class flight zone, accommodating popular aircraft models including Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 series. The terminal building covers 11,700 square meters, with international facilities occupying 7,600 square meters. A 2,400-meter runway supports efficient operations.
Modern Infrastructure
The airport features state-of-the-art security screening systems, advanced baggage handling technology, and comprehensive passenger amenities. Travelers enjoy:
- Spacious, well-lit waiting areas
- Full Wi-Fi coverage throughout terminals
- Ample parking facilities for private vehicles
- Streamlined check-in and boarding processes
Expanding Flight Network
Jiuhuashan Airport continues to broaden its route offerings, currently serving major domestic destinations including Beijing, Guangzhou, and Xiamen. Passenger throughput reached 500,000 annually in 2020, with cargo volume hitting 2,500 metric tons. Future expansion plans prioritize:
- Enhanced north-south corridor connectivity
- New routes to southeastern coastal cities
- Projected 2040 capacity of 1.45 million passengers and 12,200 tons of cargo
Safety and Security
Safety remains the airport's top priority, with rigorous protocols including:
- Regular staff training programs
- Comprehensive equipment maintenance schedules
- Collaborative safety systems with airlines and regulatory bodies
Economic and Community Impact
The airport's operation has significantly boosted local development, particularly in tourism. Serving as the gateway to Jiuhua Mountain—a renowned Buddhist sacred site—it attracts visitors worldwide. Commercial benefits include:
- Accelerated business exchanges for Chizhou enterprises
- Increased regional visibility and economic activity
- Development of ancillary industries including hospitality and logistics
Future Vision
Jiuhuashan Airport plans to optimize flight schedules and expand its route network both domestically and internationally. Key initiatives include:
- Improved east-west flight connections
- Exploration of short-haul international routes
- Continued infrastructure upgrades to support growing demand
As Chizhou's aviation cornerstone, Jiuhuashan Airport stands poised to connect the region with global opportunities, driving economic growth while delivering efficient, secure, and comfortable travel experiences for all passengers.
