Spring Festival travel rush kicks off, sets records in aviation sector

Beijing Capital is forecast to handle 7.95 million passenger trips during the season, averaging 199,000 per day. On Tuesday, the airport was set to manage 199,000 trips.

Daxing Airport expects 37,600 flights, a 5.6 percent increase from 2024, and plans to handle 6.1 million passenger trips, averaging 150,000 daily. Popular international destinations from Daxing include Russia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Qatar, and the United Kingdom. The airport operates nearly 70 international routes connecting 42 cities across 26 countries and regions, including major tourist spots like London, Osaka, Bangkok, and Singapore.

To enhance the experience for international passengers, both Beijing airports have set up dedicated counters in arrival zones offering services such as SIM card purchases and free half-day tour consultations.

Airlines are also increasing capacity to meet demand. Air China plans to operate over 70,000 flights during the travel period, a 9.5% increase from 2024. The airline is adding 3,400 flights to key domestic and international routes, including popular destinations like Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand.