Xiangzhou District, Zhuhai

Plans to develop the city’s general aviation airports call for 60 of them including takeoff and landing strips throughout urban areas, the western region, and islands by 2030, according to the Zhuhai Housing & Urban-Rural Planning & Construction Bureau.

Five categories -- conventional fixed-wing-craft airports, fixed-wing-craft airstrips, runway-based FATO helipads, conventional heliports, and seaplane bases -- will be constructed.

Zhuhai Airport in Jinwan District [Photo courtesy carnoc.com]

Nonetheless, local attitudes toward the plans vary. Some applaud the seaplane bases, which are new in only Maldives, whereas others consider it too far-fetched to plan so many GA airports for the city.

Currently in service are Zhuhai or Jinwan Airport and Jiuzhou Helipad, while Lianzhou GA Airport is under construction. The new blueprint was charted in an attempt to improve the strategic integrated transport network, enhance economic and social development, and sharpen a comprehensive aviation edge, an official stated.

Conventional fixed-wing airports will be distributed at Zhuhai Airport, Lianzhou Town in Doumen, and Qi’ao Island. Airstrips are planned for Ocean Spring Resort in Jinwan and Zhuhaoling Mountain in Doumen. In the meantime, runway-based FATO helipads will be located in South Hengqin, West Gaolan Port, and Xiangzhou Port.

In addition, seaplane bases will be constructed on popular tourist islands such as Miaowan, Dong’ao, Wanshan, and Wailingding, and conventional heliports will service the East and West wings as well as several islands.