CHONGQING (CQNEWS) -- The newly constructed fourth runway at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport was officially opened on December 26, 2024. With this addition, Jiangbei Airport becomes the third airport in China, following Beijing Daxing International Airport and Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and the first in the central and western regions, to operate with four runways.

The opening of the fourth runway significantly increases the airport’s capacity and operational efficiency. The airport now features a “close departures, distant arrivals” layout centered around Terminal 3 (T3), which helps reduce both takeoff and landing intervals. This improvement allows for faster turnaround times for aircraft on the runway, boosting flight punctuality, optimizing takeoff efficiency, and enhancing the overall passenger experience.

The fourth runway, located to the east of the third runway, stretches 3,400 meters in length and 45 meters in width. It is designed to accommodate 4F-category aircraft, ensuring that it can support large passenger and cargo planes. Construction of the runway began in late 2021, and engineers overcame several challenges, including continuous construction during operation, high embankments at the southern end, hilly terrain, and the need to cross a subway tunnel. In May 2024, the fourth runway was fully connected, and by August, it had completed test flights and passed its completion inspection. In September, the runway successfully underwent real aircraft test flights and passed industry certification. The new runway incorporates numerous digital and intelligent technologies, which enhance operational efficiency and improve safety management standards.

In addition to the fourth runway, Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport is accelerating the expansion of its infrastructure. The construction of the T3B terminal is progressing rapidly, with plans to complete it by the first quarter of 2025. Once finished, the airport will have the capacity to handle 80 million passengers annually, 1.2 million tons of cargo and mail, and 580,000 aircraft movements each year. This expansion will strengthen Jiangbei Airport’s role as a key gateway for the city, laying a solid foundation for the development of its aviation functional platform and the construction of open access channels. Ultimately, this will enhance Chongqing's global influence and ability to attract key resources. (Translated by Yuki, Fathom Language Limited)