Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport has fully launched international operations at its new Terminal 3 (T3), following the second phase of airlines' relocation completed on January 22.
From 11:30 a.m., all international and regional flights previously operating from Terminal 1 were transferred to T3. This includes services operated by 30 international and regional carriers, as well as international flights by China Eastern, Hainan Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, and Spring Airlines. Spring Airlines has also moved its domestic services to T3, while other domestic flights by Air China, Hainan Airlines, and Shenzhen Airlines continue to operate from Terminal 1.
The move marks a major operational milestone since T3 officially opened in late October 2025.
The airport currently serves more than 80 passenger and cargo airlines, with a route network covering 105 major cities worldwide. It operates over 146 international routes, including nearly 30 intercontinental destinations.
Passenger and flight volumes have risen sharply in early 2026, reflecting continued recovery in air travel demand. Between January 1 and 20, the airport handled more than 31,000 flights and 4.76 million passengers, representing year-on-year increases of 3.3% and 6.5%, respectively. Cross-border passenger traffic surpassed one million by January 19, reaching that milestone three days earlier than in 2025 and setting a new record for the same period.
With the Spring Festival travel rush approaching, authorities expect daily international arrivals and departures to peak at around 58,000 passengers.
To manage increased demand, the airport has expanded transport links to and from T3, focusing on rail, road and contingency services. Metro and intercity rail frequencies have been adjusted to better match flight schedules, while real-time transport guidance has been enhanced across the terminal.
Ground transport has also been strengthened, with more frequent shuttle buses between terminals, expanded city and regional coach services, and improved access for taxis, ride-hailing vehicles and private cars. A 24-hour free shuttle now connects all three terminals, while emergency transfer services have been put in place to assist passengers who arrive at the wrong terminal.
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Reporter: Zeng Xiangxing
Video: Pan Jiajun
Photo: Pan Jiajun
Poster: Pan Jiajun
Editor: Hu Nan, James Campion, Shen He
