70 New Airports for China by 2015

Photo by Keith Chan 

Within the next three years, China will be establishing 70 new airports as part of a large-scale plan to expand the aviation industry despite the economic slowdown.

As pointed out by Li Jianxiang, the head of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), this idea to build more airports in the country is based on its significant increase in the fleet – after settling a plan to buy more than 300 carriers in a span of five years.

Li added during the annual general meeting of IATA that aside from the plan to construct new airports, the old ones will be expanded and improved. This arrangement would give China more than 230 flight hubs by 2015, to cater to the 4,700 planes which are expected to be owned by the nation by then.

This ambitious move was set after IATA head Tony Tyler revealed that the global profits from airlines would most likely decrease due to the skyrocketing oil prices and various crises. Although the industry in the Asia Pacific is expected to receive a total of US$2 billion in gains, it is still less than half of the income received in 2011.

The group did not provide any prognosis to the Chinese market, especially since it has been a constant favorite of travelers and the Chinese people love travelling. However, the slowing economic growth of China (along with India) can be partly blamed.

In the first quarter of 2012, China’s economy raised only 8.1%. It is the slowest pace in three years.

The World’s Best Airports

People often think of airports as huge places crammed with people and luggage, with endless queues and counters. As much as people want to travel, going to the airport is usually a stressful affair, what with all the security checks and the never-ending rush of faces. But there are certain airports in the world where things can get easier for passengers. Believe it or not, some airports provide a great experience for passengers while they are waiting to board their respective flights. 

These airports come with certain perks apart from first-class restaurants. Some even have golf courses and spas. You can even find an airport where you can see giant slides. These airports very much exist and of course, you’re wondering where you can find them.

Here are some of the world’s best airports according to the survey compiled by Skytrax, the world’s largest airline and airport review site. These airports were voted by more than 9 million travelers who answered the questionnaires.

• Auckland International Airport, New Zealand

Photo by Auckland Airport

Auckland is considered the second largest cargo port in New Zealand, and this airport houses more than 20 international airlines. The airport has garnered the Airport Staff Excellence Award for Australia/Pacific. Over 13 million passengers are served by the airport a year.

• Amsterdam Schipol, The Netherlands

The Amsterdam Schipol used to be a military airfield. Now it is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving more than 43 million passengers yearly. Travelers can play games at the casino or get a massage while waiting for their flights. It was given the #2 Best Airport Shopping award.

• Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Malaysia

For those looking for a “green” airport, check out the Kuala Lumpur International Airport, which keeps a section of the rainforest inside the main terminal. The airport was given the Best Airport Immigration Service (#1) and Airport Staff Excellence South East Asia (#1).

• Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore

This ultra-modern airport houses a fitness center, nature trail, and swimming pool. The tallest slide in the country can also be found here. These, in addition to the excellent service, make Changi Airport the first on the list.