Sanya airport sees surge in international passenger traffic

Some 3,636 international and regional flights as well as 557,389 passenger trips had been handled by Sanya Phoenix International Airport by June 17, according to the latest statistics, as the airport sees continued growth in international passenger traffic.

These numbers represented increases of 29.6 percent and 36 percent, respectively, on the same period last year.

They highlight Sanya's strategic efforts to enhance its port facilities, expand flight routes, integrate industry with tourism and boost international marketing to create a new model of openness.

On June 19, the immigration hall at Sanya Phoenix International Airport was bustling yet orderly — as travelers from around the world arrived at Hainan Free Trade Port.

The airport has introduced an innovative inspection process that allows real-time sharing of customs and security data — enabling passengers to complete dual checks in a single pass, reducing individual clearance times to under a minute.

With police managing the flows and bilingual signage throughout, the long queues of the past have significantly diminished, presenting a polished image of the Hainan FTP.

Sanya's international air routes continue to expand, thanks to policy advantages like visa-free entry for citizens of 86 countries and open-air rights.

The network now covers key tourist markets in Southeast Asia, Russian-speaking regions, Central Asia, and Central and Eastern Europe, among other areas.

Flights to and from cities like Moscow, Tashkent, Minsk and Almaty are now increasing steadily, enhancing cross-border travel options.

The surge in international visitors has broadened Sanya's appeal beyond just beach tourism. New trends like "medical wellness + tourism" are gaining popularity among foreign tourists.

The city now boasts over 20 traditional Chinese medicine wellness centers catering to international guests — offering all-inclusive packages that combine accommodation, dining and wellness — shifting the focus from sightseeing to health-oriented travel.

To improve the experience for international residents, Sanya is planning an international visitor service area that will provide integrated services in government, legal, medical and cultural adaptation — ensuring a smooth transition for overseas visitors and encouraging longer stays.

Meanwhile, targeting the global market, Sanya is rolling out a comprehensive international promotion strategy.

It has established 23 overseas tourism offices in more than 10 countries and regions — including Russia, Thailand, South Korea, Germany, the Czech Republic and Kazakhstan — to strengthen its presence in key markets.

Additionally, Sanya is sharing its expertise in developing a zero-waste city and in ecological protection. It's using events, traveler testimonials and international cooperation to foster cross-cultural exchanges and to promote its green, open and inclusive city image.