Thursday, March 27, 2025
The Routes Asia event, which plays a pivotal role in shaping the region’s air route networks, is officially heading to Xi’an, China, for its 2026 edition, scheduled to take place from March 24-26, 2026. The announcement came at the closing ceremony of the 2025 edition of Routes Asia, where Perth Airport and Tourism Western Australia officially handed over the event hosting responsibilities to China West Airport Group.
Xi’an as a Strategic Aviation Hub
Xi’an, the capital of Shaanxi province, is one of China’s most historically rich cities. Known for being the Eastern terminus of the Silk Road, it has long been a key transport hub for Northern China. Xi’an Xianyang International Airport, the region’s main airport, has been undergoing a significant multiyear expansion, with its annual passenger handling capacity set to reach 80 million passengers. This expansion marks an important milestone in Xi’an’s efforts to further solidify its position as an international aviation hub.
Historical Significance and Growth
Xi’an is not only a cultural treasure trove, home to six UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites, including the iconic Terracotta Army, but also a growing center for scientific research, education, and high-tech industry. The city’s role as a major international base for research and manufacturing further highlights its importance in the global aviation network.
The Impact of Routes Asia 2026
During the handover ceremony, Steven Small, director of Routes, acknowledged the significant role that Routes Asia plays in shaping air connectivity across the Asia-Pacific region. He emphasized that Xi’an’s hosting of the 2026 event will not only strengthen the region’s existing routes to Southeast and North Asia, but also open up opportunities for expansion across Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. With more than 110 carriers expected to attend, Routes Asia 2026 presents a unique platform for Xi’an to expand its aviation network, attract international tourists, boost trade, and secure future investment.
The Role of China West Airport Group
Yang Ou, chairman of China West Airport Group, spoke about the significance of hosting Routes Asia 2026 in Xi’an. He highlighted the city’s historical and cultural importance, noting that Xi’an is the most influential ancient capital in Chinese history, home to numerous dynasties. As the second-largest airport management group in China, China West Airport Group operates 18 airports across multiple provinces, including Shaanxi, Ningxia, and Qinghai. The ongoing expansion projects at Xi’an Xianyang International Airport are expected to meet the security needs of 83 million passengers and handle 1 million tons of cargo annually once the third phase of the airport’s construction is complete.
Future Prospects for Xi’an
With the new stage of three-runway operations and the eventual transition to four-runway operations, Xi’an Xianyang International Airport is poised to become one of the top international aviation hubs in China. The city’s hosting of Routes Asia 2026 is not only a recognition of its growth in the aviation sector but also an affirmation of the China West Airport Group’s dedication to enhancing regional aviation interconnectivity. The event presents an opportunity for Xi’an to continue fostering cooperation among domestic and international airlines and civil aviation colleagues, thus setting the stage for the Air Silk Road of the new era.
