Guangzhou Baiyun Airport Expands with New Terminal 3 Boosting Capacity

Guangzhou Baiyun Airport Unveils Terminal 3, Ushering in a New Era of Aviation

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport has officially entered a new phase of its development with the inauguration of its state-of-the-art Terminal 3. This launch marks a significant milestone, solidifying the airport’s position as a critical aviation hub not only for China but for the entire Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area. The expansion is a cornerstone of Guangzhou’s strategic vision to evolve into a comprehensive, multi-modal international aviation gateway, enhancing its capacity to handle a growing volume of passengers and cargo.

The opening of Terminal 3 is more than just an infrastructure upgrade; it represents a leap forward in operational capability and technological integration. With this addition, Baiyun Airport now operates with a “Five Runways and Three Terminals” configuration, a setup that dramatically increases its scale and efficiency. This development is pivotal for the region’s ambition to cultivate a world-class airport cluster, capable of competing on the global stage and driving economic growth through enhanced connectivity.

A Grand Opening and a Symbolic Inaugural Flight

On October 30, 2025, Terminal 3 officially commenced operations. The inaugural event was marked by a brief but memorable ceremony inside the new terminal, featuring a performance by the Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra and a traditional lion dance, celebrating the fusion of modernity and cultural heritage. Passengers embarking on the first flight were presented with commemorative gifts to mark the historic occasion.

The first flight to depart from the new terminal was China Eastern Airlines flight MU6308, which took off at 2:59 p.m. bound for Beijing Daxing International Airport. The choice of aircraft for this landmark flight was highly symbolic. The flight was operated by a C919, China’s domestically developed passenger jet. This decision underscores the nation’s growing ambitions and capabilities in the domestic aviation manufacturing sector, showcasing the C919 on a prominent stage during a key moment for one of the country’s most important airports.

Boosting Capacity for a Global Hub

The commissioning of Terminal 3 brings a substantial increase to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport’s capacity. Projections indicate the airport can now handle an annual passenger volume of 120 million and a cargo throughput of 3.8 million tons. These figures represent a significant step up, with long-term plans aiming for an ultimate capacity of 140 million passengers and 6 million tons of cargo annually. This expansion is critical for meeting future demand and strengthening the airport’s role as a leading air travel and cargo hub.

To manage this increased flow, the terminal is outfitted with extensive facilities. It features 199 check-in counters and 60 self-service kiosks designed to streamline the departure process. The sheer scale of these facilities is a direct response to the anticipated growth in passenger traffic, ensuring that the airport can maintain a smooth and efficient passenger experience even as its numbers swell.

With the opening of Terminal 3, Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport’s annual capacity is projected to reach 120 million passengers and 3.8 million tons of cargo, with an ultimate goal of 140 million passengers and 6 million tons.

Technological Advancements and Integrated Design

Terminal 3 is not just bigger; it is smarter. It stands as China’s first terminal to be fully constructed using Building Information Modeling (BIM) digital technology, a process that allows for more precise and efficient design and construction. This forward-thinking approach extends to its operations, with the terminal also designed for paper-free archives, reflecting a commitment to digitalization and sustainability.

Streamlining the Passenger Journey

A key technological highlight is the implementation of an advanced RFID-enabled security system. This system is engineered to significantly reduce passenger processing times, with the potential to process individuals in as little as six seconds. Such innovations are crucial for enhancing the passenger experience, minimizing queues, and improving overall operational efficiency. The design of the terminal itself is inspired by Guangzhou’s nickname, the “Flower City,” integrating local cultural elements into its modern architecture to create a unique and welcoming environment for travelers.

Beyond the terminal walls, the project emphasizes seamless connectivity. A central Ground Transportation Centre serves as the nexus for various modes of transport, linking the terminal to extensive rail, metro, and highway networks. This integrated transport hub ensures that passengers have convenient and efficient access to and from the airport, further cementing its role as a vital gateway for the region and a key node in the national transportation system.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Guangzhou’s Aviation Ambitions

The launch of Terminal 3 at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is a landmark achievement that extends far beyond its physical structure. It represents a strategic enhancement of China’s aviation infrastructure, equipped with cutting-edge technology and designed for massive capacity. The symbolic use of the C919 for the inaugural flight highlights a parallel story of domestic innovation in aerospace manufacturing, tying the airport’s growth to the nation’s broader industrial ambitions.

As Terminal 3 becomes fully integrated into the airport’s operations, it will undoubtedly serve as a powerful engine for economic growth in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area. By boosting trade, tourism, and overall connectivity, this expansion solidifies Guangzhou’s status as a premier global aviation hub. The project is a clear indicator of the region’s forward momentum, setting a new standard for airport design, efficiency, and strategic importance in the 21st century.

FAQ

Question: When did Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport’s Terminal 3 officially open?
Answer: Terminal 3 officially became operational on October 30, 2025.

Question: What was special about the inaugural flight from Terminal 3?
Answer: The inaugural flight, China Eastern Airlines flight MU6308, was operated by a C919 aircraft, which is China’s domestically developed passenger jet.

Question: What is the new estimated capacity of the airport with Terminal 3?
Answer: The airport’s annual capacity is projected to reach 120 million passengers and 3.8 million tons of cargo, with an ultimate goal of increasing to 140 million passengers and 6 million tons.

Question: What are some of the key technological features of the new terminal?
Answer: Terminal 3 is China’s first terminal fully constructed using BIM digital technology and features an advanced RFID-enabled security system that can process passengers in as little as six seconds.

Sources: WBOY