Business Aviation Flight Operation In China International Airports

China’s aviation sector is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by rising demand for passenger and cargo services. Significant investments in infrastructure and business aviation are further propelling this expansion. As the industry rebounds from previous challenges, the increased flight operations and passenger traffic indicate a strong recovery trajectory. This momentum is expected to continue, positioning China’s aviation market as a key player in the global landscape.

China’s Aviation Industry Profile

In 2023, China’s aviation sector experienced remarkable growth across various operational metrics, reflecting a strong recovery from previous challenges. Total flight operations reached approximately 12,451 daily flights, culminating in around 4.54 million flights annually. This represented a staggering year-on-year growth rate of 140.91%, underscoring the sector’s robust rebound.

Passenger traffic surged in tandem with flight operations, as approximately 619.58 million air passenger trips were recorded in 2023, marking a substantial increase of 146.1% compared to 2022. This growth is notable when viewed against historical passenger counts, which showed 267.4 million passengers in 2010, 436.2 million in 2015, and a dip to 249.85 million in 2022, highlighting the dramatic recovery in 2023 after the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The air cargo sector also exhibited strong performance, with cargo volume reaching approximately 7.35 million metric tons in 2023, reflecting a 21% increase from the previous year. Additionally, the civil aviation industry recorded a cargo and mail traffic of 28.36 billion ton-kilometers, which marked an 11.6% rise compared to 2022, indicating the sector’s vital role in supporting trade and logistics.

In the realm of business aviation, the general aviation industry completed 4.58 million hours of flight operations during the 13th Five-Year Plan period (2016-2020), achieving an average annual growth rate of 5.2%. The business jets market in China is projected to continue expanding, with an anticipated annual growth rate of 3.92%, potentially reaching a market volume of US$0.53 billion by 2025.

Despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic, China’s civil aviation industry demonstrated resilience, generating total revenues of approximately 633 billion yuan in 2022. This figure represented a significant decline of 40% compared to 2019 but indicated the sector’s ongoing economic importance as it began to recover.

With 248 civil airports across the country, China’s aviation infrastructure is extensive. The busiest airports handle millions of seats each month, with notable year-on-year increases in capacity, positioning the sector for continued growth and development in the coming years.

Here are the top 6 international airports in China, which contribute significantly to this aviation profile:

• Beijing Capital International Airport (IATA: PEK, ICAO: ZBAA)
• Shanghai Pudong International Airport (IATA: PVG, ICAO: ZSPD)
• Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (IATA: CAN, ICAO: ZGGG)
• Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (IATA: CTU, ICAO: ZUUU)
• Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (IATA: SZX, ICAO: ZGSZ)
• Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (IATA: XIY, ICAO: ZLXY)

Beijing Capital International Airport (IATA: PEK, ICAO: ZBAA) Flight Operations

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) is a major aviation hub with three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. Terminal 1 is currently closed and was primarily used for domestic flights. Terminal 2 handles both domestic and international flights, featuring a departure hall on the second floor and an arrival hall on the first and third floors. Terminal 3, the largest and most modern, serves both domestic and international flights and is located 6 kilometers southeast of Terminals 1 and 2. The terminals are connected by a free shuttle bus service that operates every 10 to 15 minutes.

In terms of passenger traffic, Beijing Capital International Airport has seen significant growth over the years. In 2023, the airport handled approximately 52.88 million passengers, reflecting a robust recovery and growth post-pandemic. This marked an 18% increase in passenger numbers compared to the previous year, with a notable surge in international and regional passenger volumes, which exceeded 10 million by September 2024.

The airport’s aircraft slot capacity is designed to accommodate a high volume of flights. During peak hours, the airport can handle up to 103 flights per hour, although the standard capacity is set at 88 flights per hour to manage congestion and ensure smooth operations. This capacity allows the airport to efficiently manage its extensive flight schedule, supporting both domestic and international routes.

Beijing Capital International Airport is equipped with three runways. Runway 18L/36R and Runway 01/19 are both 3,810 meters (12,500 feet) long, with surfaces made of asphalt and concrete, respectively. Runway 18R/36L is slightly shorter at 3,445 meters (11,302 feet) and also features an asphalt surface. These runways are designed to handle a wide range of aircraft, from smaller regional jets to large international airliners, ensuring the airport can accommodate diverse flight operations.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (IATA: PVG, ICAO: ZSPD) Flight Operations

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) is a key international gateway located approximately 30 kilometers east of downtown Shanghai. The airport features two main terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, along with two satellite concourses, S1 and S2. Terminal 1, which opened in 1999, primarily handles international flights, while Terminal 2, operational since 2008, accommodates both domestic and international traffic. The satellite concourses, connected to the main terminals by an automated people mover, significantly enhance the airport’s capacity and passenger experience.

In terms of passenger traffic, Shanghai Pudong International Airport handled around 54.48 million passengers in 2023, making it the second-busiest airport in China. This figure represents a substantial recovery and growth, particularly in international travel, which accounted for 35.25 million passengers. The airport’s passenger numbers have shown a consistent upward trend, reflecting its importance as a major hub in East Asia.

The airport’s aircraft slot capacity has been optimized to manage high traffic volumes efficiently. Currently, Shanghai Pudong can handle up to 74 flights per hour, with peak slot hours controlled at 70 flights to ensure safety and operational efficiency. This capacity allows the airport to support a vast network of both passenger and cargo flights.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport is equipped with five runways, each designed to accommodate large aircraft. The runways include:

• Runway 17L/35R: 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) long, concrete surface
• Runway 16R/34L: 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) long, concrete surface
• Runway 17R/35L: 3,400 meters (11,155 feet) long, concrete surface
• Runway 16L/34R: 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) long, concrete surface
• Runway 15/33: 3,400 meters (11,155 feet) long, concrete surface

These runways are capable of handling a wide range of aircraft, from smaller regional jets to the largest international airliners, ensuring that the airport can meet the demands of both passenger and cargo operations.

China’s Aviation Regulations for Scheduled and Non-Scheduled Business Flight Operations

These regulations ensure that all business flight operations in China, whether scheduled or non-scheduled, adhere to strict safety and operational standards, maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the aviation sector:

Scheduled Business Flight Operations

Scheduled business flight operations in China are governed by several regulations to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with international standards. The primary regulatory framework includes:

Civil Aviation Law of the People’s Republic of China:

This law provides the overarching legal framework for all civil aviation activities in China, including scheduled business flights.

• CCAR-121: This regulation applies to large aircraft operations, typically those with more than 30 seats or a maximum payload capacity of more than 3,400 kg.
• A business jet operator planning regular flights between Beijing and Shanghai must comply with CCAR-121, ensuring that their aircraft and operations meet the safety and maintenance standards specified.
• CCAR-129: This regulation is crucial for foreign air carriers operating scheduled flights to and from China.
• A foreign business jet operator planning to establish a regular route between New York and Beijing must obtain CCAR-129 approval, demonstrating compliance with Chinese operational and safety standards.

Non-Scheduled Business Flight Operations

Non-scheduled business flight operations, also known as charter flights, are subject to different regulations:

• CCAR-135: This regulation applies to smaller aircraft operations, typically those with fewer than 30 seats or a maximum payload capacity of less than 3,400 kg.
• A business jet operator conducting ad-hoc charter flights for corporate clients must comply with CCAR-135, ensuring their operations meet the required safety standards.
• Detailed Rules for the Business Permission for Non-Scheduled Flights (CCAR-119TR-R1): These rules govern the business permissions for non-scheduled flights of foreign air transport enterprises.
• A foreign business jet operator planning a one-time charter flight from London to Shanghai must apply for business permission under CCAR-119TR-R1, ensuring compliance with Chinese regulations.

Traffic Rights and Landing Permits:

• CCAR-129: For non-scheduled operations, CCAR-129 approval is required if the operator conducts more than 10 flights within a consecutive 12-month period.
• A business jet operator conducting frequent charter flights to China must obtain CCAR-129 approval once they exceed 10 flights in a year.
• A business jet operator based in Hong Kong plans to start a regular service to Beijing. They must comply with CCAR-121, secure traffic rights, and obtain airport slots at Beijing Capital International Airport. Additionally, if they are a foreign operator, they need CCAR-129 approval.
• A European business jet operator receives a request for a one-time charter flight from Paris to Shanghai. They must apply for business permission under CCAR-119TR-R1, secure landing permits, and ensure compliance with CCAR-135 if applicable. If they plan to operate more than 10 such flights in a year, they will also need CCAR-129 approval.

Slot Coordination Application Checklist for Scheduled and Non-Scheduled Business Operations

These checklists ensure that both scheduled and non-scheduled business operations comply with regulatory requirements and optimize the use of airport resources, maintaining efficient and safe operations.

Scheduled Business Operations

For scheduled business operations, the application process for slot coordination involves several detailed steps to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and efficient use of airport resources. Here’s a checklist:

Document Preparation of Slot Request

• Flight Schedule
• Aircraft Information
• Operator Details

Submission of Slot Request

• Slot Clearance Request (SCR)
• Timing: Submitting requests well in advance, typically during the bi-annual IATA slot conferences (for summer and winter seasons).

Coordination and Confirmation

• Coordination with Airport Authorities: Engaging with the airport slot coordinator to negotiate and confirm slot allocations.
• Confirmation Receipt: Obtaining a confirmation of the allocated slots, including any conditions or restrictions.

Compliance and Monitoring

• Adherence to Allocated Slots: Ensuring strict adherence to the allocated slots to avoid penalties.
• Monitoring and Adjustments: Monitoring slot usage and request adjustments if necessary, using the SCR format for any changes.

Non-Scheduled Business Operations

For non-scheduled business operations, the process is slightly different, focusing on ad-hoc and charter flights. Here’s a checklist:

Document Preparation of Slot Request

• Flight Schedule
• Aircraft Information
• Operator Details

Submission of Slot Request

• General Aviation Clearance Request (GCR): Using the GCR format for submitting slot requests for non-scheduled flights.
• Timing: Submitting requests as early as possible, but no later than 24 hours before the planned operation.

Coordination and Confirmation

• Coordination with Airport Authorities: Engaging with the airport slot coordinator to negotiate and confirm slot allocations.
• Confirmation Receipt: Obtaining a confirmation of the allocated slots, including any conditions or restrictions.

Compliance and Monitoring

• Adherence to Allocated Slots: Ensuring strict adherence to the allocated slots to avoid penalties.
• Monitoring and Adjustments: Monitoring slot usage and request adjustments if necessary, using the GCR format for any changes.

• For Scheduled Operations: A business jet operator planning regular flights between Beijing and Shanghai would prepare a detailed flight schedule, submit an SCR well in advance, and coordinate with the airport authorities to confirm and adhere to the allocated slots.
• For Non-Scheduled Operations: A business jet operator planning an ad-hoc charter flight from London to Shanghai would prepare the flight details, submit a GCR at least 24 hours before the flight, and coordinate with the airport authorities to confirm and adhere to the allocated slots.

This overview outlines the slot coordination process and necessary documentation for flight operations at China’s major airports, ensuring efficient and compliant operations. For further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact Just Aviation team.

Overflight Permits Necessary for China’s International Operations

Overflight permits are necessary when planning international operations over China. The permit application requires that your local business contact in China prepares a sponsor letter in the specified format, typically taking around one week to process. Strict compliance with the documentation requirements and the exact sponsor letter format is essential to ensure a smooth application. It’s important to note that overflight permits are only valid for the initially approved schedule, with a maximum allowance of two revisions. Additionally, aircraft with seating capacities of 30 or more may incur specific fees associated with the permit process.

Landing Permits Necessary for China’s International Operations

Landing permits are necessary for international flights into China, requiring careful planning and a typical lead time of three business days, except for diplomatic and emergency medical operations. A comprehensive permit request should include all necessary documents, such as crew and passenger details, along with a sponsor letter from a local business contact, following the required format. Revisions to landing permits are limited to two and need a two-day lead time. For access to military or domestic-only airports, operators must provide additional sponsor letters from a local government entity and business contact. Foreign-registered aircraft must also account for a compensation fee, which is waived only for those registered in mainland China.

China International Airports Ground Handling Operations

Just Aviation delivers comprehensive ground handling services at China’s busiest airports, ensuring seamless and efficient operations for business aviation. At Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN), our handling solutions are meticulously tailored to meet the specific needs of private and corporate aircraft. We provide a full range of ramp services, including aircraft marshaling, pushback, refueling, and de-icing, as well as passenger and crew assistance such as VIP lounge access. Every aspect of our ground operations is executed with precision and compliance.

We focus on efficient turnaround times through highly coordinated aircraft handling, utilizing advanced all Ground Service Equipments (GSEs) to minimize delays. Our team adheres to stringent international standards, incorporating the latest updates from IATA’s Airport Handling Manual (AHM) and complying with local aviation regulations to ensure a safe, efficient, and reliable service. By partnering with Just Aviation, operators can concentrate on their core business while we manage the technical and operational complexities of ground handling at these strategic locations.