Lishui Airport Opens in Zhejiang After 17-Year Construction Project

Lishui Airport (IATA: LIJ, ICAO: ZSLI) has officially commenced operations in China's Zhejiang Province, concluding a 17-year design and construction period that began in 2008. The new regional hub, which opened on July 18, 2025, is designed to initially handle one million passengers and 4,000 tonnes of cargo annually, significantly enhancing transportation infrastructure in the mountainous region.

The airport is located approximately 15 kilometers from the Lishui city center and is a key project in China's broader strategy to improve regional connectivity. Its development reflects the country's ongoing expansion of airport infrastructure, a goal emphasized in its 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) which aimed to increase the number of civil transport airports to over 270.

Architectural Design and Specifications

Designed by the globally recognized firm MAD Architects, the airport terminal is distinguished by its organic, bird-like form intended to blend with the surrounding landscape. The terminal building covers an area of approximately 12,000 square meters and features a flowing, silver-white roof that resembles a bird in flight. This focus on architecturally significant design is a growing trend in Chinese airport construction, aiming to create functional landmarks.

Ma Yansong, founder of MAD Architects, described the design philosophy: "We used materials with warm tones and natural textures to create a bright and airy interior. By adopting a one and a half story layout, the airport remains compact, while supporting daily comfort and engaging in a dialogue with nature."

Operationally, the airport is equipped with a runway measuring 2,800 meters in length and 45 meters in width. The facility includes eight aircraft parking stands to accommodate regional traffic. The project's planning, design, and construction were overseen and certified by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), the country's national aviation authority, to ensure compliance with all safety and operational standards.

Future Expansion and Regional Impact

Lishui Airport is poised for significant growth. According to long-term planning documents, future expansion phases are projected to increase capacity to 1.8 million passengers by 2030 and ultimately to 5 million by 2050. These plans include the eventual construction of an international terminal to further boost regional tourism and economic development.

As a Class 4C regional airport, Lishui serves as a critical feeder hub, connecting a historically less-accessible area to China's major cities and transportation networks. The project is expected to stimulate local economies by facilitating both business travel and tourism in the scenic Zhejiang Province.

Why This Matters

In my view, the opening of Lishui Airport is more than just new infrastructure; it's a prime example of how China is using architecturally ambitious projects to drive economic development and tourism in its interior regions. While its initial capacity is modest, its unique design and strategic placement signal a long-term commitment to integrating less-connected cities into the national transportation network. This project underscores the trend of viewing airports not just as utilities, but as cultural and economic gateways.

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