Friday, June 20, 2025
Zhuhai Airport has reached a significant milestone, celebrating three decades of remarkable success, largely driven by its strategic partnership with the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK). Over the past 20 years, AAHK has played a pivotal role in enhancing the airport’s operational efficiency, service quality, and infrastructure. In 2024, AAHK strengthened its commitment to Zhuhai Airport by increasing its stake, marking a new chapter in their collaboration. This continued investment has not only driven substantial growth in passenger traffic—reaching 13 million in 2024—but also solidified Zhuhai Airport’s position as one of the leading airports in Mainland China. The success story of Zhuhai Airport is a testament to the enduring impact of this partnership and the transformative improvements in both airport operations and regional connectivity.
In a significant milestone for aviation collaboration, senior management from the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) participated in the Zhuhai Airport 30th Anniversary celebration event. The event commemorated a successful two-decade-long partnership between AAHK and the Zhuhai Municipal People’s Government, highlighting their collective efforts to transform Zhuhai Airport into a prominent hub for air travel in Mainland China.
A History of Partnership and Growth
The collaboration between AAHK and the Zhuhai Municipal People’s Government dates back to 2006, when both parties established the Hong Kong-Zhuhai Airport Management Company Limited, a joint venture aimed at managing Zhuhai Airport. This partnership was founded on a shared vision to enhance the airport’s operational efficiency, service quality, and overall management standards, and it has consistently delivered positive results. The partnership has not only strengthened Zhuhai Airport’s infrastructure but also supported its steady rise in both passenger and cargo throughput.
Since the inception of this collaboration, Zhuhai Airport has seen exponential growth in its operations. The airport’s passenger throughput has grown from just 0.79 million in 2006 to an impressive 13 million in 2024, a testament to the success of the partnership. Among Mainland China’s airports that exclusively operate domestic flights, Zhuhai has consistently handled the highest volume of passenger traffic, positioning itself as the third-largest airport in Guangdong Province.
AAHK’s Strategic Investment in Zhuhai Airport
The year 2024 marked another pivotal moment in the partnership as AAHK increased its stake in Zhuhai Airport by acquiring 35% of the airport’s shares. This acquisition not only solidified AAHK’s commitment to the development of Zhuhai Airport but also elevated the partnership to a new level. The move allows both organizations to further collaborate on enhancing operational strategies and expanding the airport’s infrastructure, ensuring that it remains competitive in the fast-growing Chinese aviation market.
Vivian Cheung, CEO of AAHK and Chairman of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai Airport Management Company Limited, emphasized the significance of this milestone during the anniversary event. Her leadership has been instrumental in driving the growth of Zhuhai Airport, and her remarks at the event celebrated the successes of the past 20 years while looking ahead to the future.
Innovative Services for Seamless Travel and Cargo Handling
In line with their commitment to enhancing travel experiences and operational efficiencies, AAHK and Zhuhai Airport have been working on several innovative projects. One of the standout initiatives is the “Fly-Via-Zhuhai-HK” service, launched in December 2023. This service allows passengers to enjoy a seamless “air-land-air” transfer between Zhuhai Airport and Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). It offers travelers the convenience of flying into Zhuhai from Mainland cities, including those without international ports, and transferring via bonded buses through the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) to HKIA’s restricted area. Once at HKIA, passengers can easily proceed to their international flights, making cross-border travel more convenient than ever.
The “Fly-Via-Zhuhai-HK” service is particularly beneficial for passengers from cities that lack direct international flight connections. By providing this service, the AAHK and Zhuhai Airport are effectively connecting more cities to global destinations, facilitating smoother travel experiences for passengers and increasing connectivity across the region.
Furthermore, AAHK and Zhuhai Airport have also focused on enhancing cargo operations, particularly in the fast-moving food and perishable goods sector. In April 2025, they introduced the Air-Land Fresh Lane service, a dedicated route for importing live and chilled seafood and fruits from overseas into the Greater Bay Area (GBA). This service streamlines customs clearance and quarantine arrangements, ensuring faster and more efficient delivery of perishable goods to the region.
A Bright Future for Zhuhai Airport and Greater Bay Area Connectivity
The Zhuhai Airport 30th Anniversary event also highlighted the ongoing importance of the airport’s development for the Greater Bay Area (GBA). Zhuhai Airport plays a key role in improving regional connectivity, particularly as the GBA becomes an increasingly vital economic and transportation hub. The collaboration between AAHK and Zhuhai Airport is integral to the success of the GBA, and both organizations are committed to ensuring that the region remains at the forefront of global trade and tourism.
Looking ahead, both AAHK and Zhuhai Airport have ambitious plans for continued growth and development. As the region’s demand for air travel and cargo services rises, the two airports are focused on upgrading infrastructure and expanding their service offerings. Their continued collaboration promises to further enhance the efficiency of air travel and cargo operations, supporting the ongoing development of the GBA and the broader Chinese aviation industry.
The Key Players Behind the Partnership
The Zhuhai Airport 30th Anniversary event was attended by a number of distinguished guests, including Vivian Cheung, CEO of AAHK, and Su Hu, Deputy Mayor of the Zhuhai Municipal People’s Government. Albert Yau, General Manager of Hong Kong-Zhuhai Airport Management Company Limited, also played a significant role in the event. Other key representatives from both the Zhuhai Airport community and AAHK management were present, all celebrating the significant achievements of the partnership.
As the collaboration between AAHK and Zhuhai Airport enters its third decade, the future looks bright for both entities. The partnership has not only transformed Zhuhai Airport into a major player in China’s aviation sector but has also set a global benchmark for collaboration in airport management. With the ongoing commitment of both parties, Zhuhai Airport is poised for continued growth, innovation, and success in the years to come.
Zhuhai Airport celebrates three decades of success, with AAHK increasing its stake to enhance efficiency and drive passenger growth, solidifying its position as a key hub in Mainland China.
Conclusion
The 30th Anniversary event at Zhuhai Airport was not only a celebration of past achievements but also a look toward the future of airport management and development. The partnership between AAHK and the Zhuhai Municipal People’s Government has proven to be a model of success, with significant contributions to the growth of Zhuhai Airport and the broader Greater Bay Area. Through innovative projects like the “Fly-Via-Zhuhai-HK” service and the Air-Land Fresh Lane for perishable goods, the partnership continues to improve connectivity and efficiency for passengers and cargo alike. As the airport enters its next chapter, the collaboration between AAHK and Zhuhai Airport promises to yield even greater benefits for the aviation industry and the region as a whole.
