Changi Airports International and Hainan Meilan International Airport Partner to Elevate Airport Experience
In a significant move to enhance the travel experience and boost commercial revenue, Changi Airports International (CAI) has partnered with Hainan Meilan International Airport Co., Ltd. (00357.HK) to oversee the non-aeronautical business operations at Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK) in China. This strategic joint venture, commencing in January 2025, sees Hainan Meilan holding a 51% stake while CAI controls 49%.
The partnership will exclusively manage the airport’s retail, dining, advertising, leisure, and VIP services for a decade, transforming HAK into a comprehensive consumer hub. This ambitious project leverages CAI’s renowned expertise in airport commerce management, aiming to increase consumer spending and generate significant commercial income.
Elevating the Passenger Experience
The collaboration aims to enhance the passenger experience by expanding retail options, integrating digital services such as e-commerce and loyalty programs, and optimizing overall airport utilization. The goal is to create a seamless and enriching travel experience for both domestic and international travelers.
Haikou Meilan International Airport: A Growing Regional Hub
Haikou Meilan International Airport, located in the capital of Hainan Province, Haikou city, serves as a critical link in the Chinese aviation sector, connecting to 116 domestic and 30 international destinations. In 2023, the airport recorded a passenger throughput of 24.34 million, ranking it 18th among the busiest airports in mainland China. With a capacity to accommodate 35 million passengers annually, the airport possesses significant potential for growth.
HAK also boasts offshore duty-free shops, attracting domestic travelers seeking duty-free goods and contributing significantly to non-aeronautical revenue generation. While international passenger numbers declined in 2023, the CAI-Meilan partnership aims to amplify airport services, attracting both domestic and international travelers to solidify its position as a key regional hub.
Shared Vision for a World-Class Airport
Mr. Eugene Gan, Chief Executive of CAI, emphasized the shared vision behind the partnership, stating, “Our collaboration with Meilan Airport stems from the shared vision of creating a world-class airport environment that supports both passenger experience and economic development. It marks a key milestone in the expansion of CAI’s global footprint, and we look forward to working closely with HAK to transform the airport into a hub of choice for travelers and retailers alike.”
The partnership aligns with Hainan’s ambition to become a global tourism and trade center, leveraging CAI’s expertise to attract international brands, enhance airport infrastructure, and solidify HAK’s position as a leading travel and trade hub in the region. This collaboration signifies a strategic move towards a brighter future for Haikou Meilan International Airport and the wider aviation industry in China.