Photo: Nanfang Plus

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport has launched flight calibration tests for its fifth runway, marking a key step in the airport's expansion. The new 3,600-meter-long east runway, part of the third phase of development, is undergoing verification of its communication, navigation, and lighting systems, moving closer to operational readiness.

The test flights, which began in the early hours of June 7, are essential for confirming the runway's safety and efficiency standards before it enters service. Once operational, the new runway is expected to significantly increase the airport's handling capacity during peak travel hours.

With a total investment of 53.77 billion yuan (approx 7.4 billion US dollars), the third-phase expansion includes the construction of Terminal 3, two new runways, a multi-modal transport hub, and additional boarding concourses for Terminal 2. Upon completion, the airport aims to accommodate over 120 million passengers and 3.8 million tonnes of cargo annually, strengthening its role as a central aviation hub in the Greater Bay Area.