In 2024, Airport New City of Xixian New Area, as a "New Starting Point of the Air Silk Road" in Northwest China's Shaanxi province, showed its efforts and achievements in furthering inland opening-up.

Last year saw its fruitful results in expanding air routes, and fostering frequent and close international exchanges. Economic and trade cooperation flourished in multiple areas, the functions of open platforms improved, and the pace of industrial upgrading accelerated.

Three new international cargo routes were opened, and 40 international passenger routes were restored or opened. The operating passenger routes have reach 39 major cities in 22 countries and 54 destinations in 27 countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Xi'an Xianyang International Airport opens a new freight route from Xi'an to Budapest. [Photo/China Daily]

Relying on international exhibitions and visits, it deepened exchanges and cooperation with global partners including those from South Korea, Indonesia, Vietnam, Kirghizstan and Saudi Arabia, gathered strong joint forces for economic development, and outlined the blueprint of the BRI.

On Nov 22, phase two of the Shaanxi Xixian Airport Comprehensive Bonded Zone in Airport New City of Xixian New Area passed joint acceptance. As the only air terminal comprehensive bonded zone in Shaanxi province, it has completed imports and exports of 19.4 billion yuan ($2.67 billion) since its establishment, accounting for more than 80 percent of the airport's total foreign trade value annually and about 35 percent of the entire Xixian New Area.

Cargo transported into Shaanxi Xixian Airport Comprehensive Bonded Zone. [Photo/China Daily]

In addition, Airport New City of Xixian New Area has formed a full industry chain for the aviation economy, including aircraft maintenance, aviation material manufacturing, electronic information, biomedicine, and logistics transportation. In 2024, the output value of its aviation economy exceeded 42 billion yuan.