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Image Credits: Largest Airport
If you're a frequent traveler or simply interested in the world of aviation, you may have come across the news that the world's largest airport has surpassed the size of Mumbai's airport. If you're wondering which airport we're talking about, it's the Beijing Daxing Airport in China. This new airport has been making waves in the aviation industry since its opening in September 2019. Let's take a closer look at this colossal airport and see what makes it stand out.
Design and Construction
The Beijing Daxing Airport, also known as the Beijing New Airport, is a massive project that took five years to build. Its construction began in 2015 and was completed in June 2019. The airport was designed by the renowned Iraqi architect, Zaha Hadid, who unfortunately passed away before its completion. It covers an area of 700,000 square meters and is estimated to have cost around 120 billion yuan (approximately USD 17.5 billion). The airport was built to reduce the burden on Beijing Capital International Airport, which has been operating beyond its designed capacity.
State-of-the-art Facilities
As one of the largest airports in the world, the Beijing Daxing Airport boasts state-of-the-art facilities. It has four runways, six branches of the Beijing Subway, and a high-speed train connecting it to the city's central business district. The airport also has the world's largest terminal building, covering an area of 1.4 million square meters. The terminal's unique shape, resembling a starfish, allows for smooth and efficient passenger flow. It has five floors, with the check-in counters, security checks, and baggage handling located on the first floor, while the boarding gates are on the second and third floors. The fourth floor is dedicated to shopping, dining, and entertainment, while the fifth floor is for VIP lounges.
Efficient and Sustainable Technology
The Beijing Daxing Airport is not only impressive in terms of size and design but also in terms of technology. It is equipped with advanced technology to ensure efficient and sustainable operations. The airport has a centralized heating system that uses geothermal energy, reducing its carbon footprint. It also has a rainwater collection system that is used for cooling and irrigation purposes. Additionally, the airport has a state-of-the-art baggage handling system, with the capacity to handle 85 million passengers and two million tons of cargo annually. This makes the airport not only the largest but also in terms of passenger and cargo capacity.
Boosting China's Economy
The Beijing Daxing Airport has been hailed as an essential step in China's strategy to boost its economy and improve its global connectivity. The airport is expected to handle more than 100 million passengers annually, making it the busiest airport in the world. It also aims to become a global hub for airlines, connecting China to the rest of the world. The airport is strategically located in the capital city, making it an ideal transit hub for travelers. It is also expected to bring in more tourism and business opportunities to the surrounding areas, further boosting China's economy.
A Symbol of China's Growth and Development
The Beijing Daxing Airport is not just another airport; it is a symbol of China's growth and development. It is a testament to China's ability to undertake and complete massive projects within a short period. The airport's grand design and technological advancements showcase China's vision for the future. It also serves as a reminder of the country's economic progress over the years and its determination to become a global superpower.
In conclusion, the Beijing Daxing Airport is not just a structure, but a symbol of China's ambition and progress. It is a remarkable feat of engineering, design, and technology that has surpassed Mumbai's airport in size. With its state-of-the-art facilities and efficient operations, the airport is set to become a major player in the aviation industry. It is undoubtedly a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts and travelers alike, and it will be exciting to see how it continues to shape the future of air travel.