Haikou Meilan International Airport announced on October 24 that as of October 21, its international cargo throughput has exceeded 20,000 tons this year, marking a remarkable 278% increase compared to last year.
So far in 2023, Meilan Airport has operated six international cargo routes, including four routes with fifth freedom rights. These routes connect to key locations such as Milan in Italy, Bournemouth in the UK, Paris in France, Vienna in Austria, Tbilisi in Georgia, Incheon in South Korea, and Singapore, establishing an international cargo network that enhances logistics and trade relations between Haikou and regions like Europe, West Asia, Northeast Asia, and Southeast Asia.
On July 8, Meilan Airport achieved a significant milestone, surpassing 10,000 tons in international cargo throughput for the first time. Just over three months later, this figure reached a new record, exceeding 20,000 tons.
To improve its international freight service capability, Meilan Airport has focused on optimizing both its equipment and service processes. In terms of facilities, the airport has added two dedicated security inspection channels for cross-border e-commerce exports to enhance cargo inspection efficiency. Additionally, 17,780 square meters of outdoor shelters have been constructed to protect goods from rain and sun, thereby improving storage and transportation quality.
On the service side, Meilan Airport has developed a comprehensive logistics solution that integrates warehousing, customs declaration, inspection, and cross-border transportation for import and export companies. This includes “integrated” services at the port, such as charter flights for cargo, security checks, tallying, collection, and assembly. The airport has also collaborated with customs to offer 24/7 appointment services for clearance and pick-up, effectively reducing operational costs for cargo agents while significantly increasing international transport efficiency.
Moreover, Meilan Airport has leveraged domestic freighter resources and international flight belly hold capacity to launch a “cross-border e-commerce + direct transfer” service. This initiative allows export goods, previously transported by land, to be airlifted directly to Meilan Airport’s international cargo terminal, facilitating immediate transfer to the cross-border e-commerce international express center. This approach has notably shortened the transfer times for cross-border e-commerce goods and minimized the need for secondary loading and unloading by agents.
A representative from Meilan Airport indicated that moving forward, they will continue to enhance their domestic and international air cargo route network and focus on improving logistics service capabilities, developing unique products, and gathering industry projects. These efforts aim to deepen their presence in the international air freight market, elevate the service levels of supply and industrial chains, and position the airport as a key gateway hub toward the Pacific and Indian Oceans, supporting the development of the Hainan Free Trade Port.
