Xi’an to Host Routes Asia 2026, Boosting Global Connectivity
Xi’an, China, has been selected as the host city for the 22nd edition of Routes Asia, the premier event focused on advancing air service development across the Asia-Pacific region. The official announcement was made on January 7, 2025, marking the beginning of preparations for the 2026 event, which will be organized by China West Airport Group.
As the capital of Shaanxi province, Xi’an holds historical and cultural significance, having been the Eastern terminus of the ancient Silk Road. The city continues to be a key transport hub for Northern China, and with its rich heritage, including the Terracotta Army and six UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites, Xi’an attracts visitors from around the globe. The city is also served by Xi’an Xianyang International Airport, which handled over 47 million passengers in 2019, ranking 7th in China and 40th globally. In 2024, passenger throughput has returned to pre-pandemic levels, further solidifying the airport’s role as a vital gateway in China.
The tourism sector in China is booming, with the World Travel and Tourism Council predicting a 10% increase in the industry’s contribution to the GDP in 2024, reaching $11.1 trillion. By 2034, the sector’s contribution is expected to rise to $16 trillion, highlighting the growing importance of travel and tourism to the nation’s economy.
Steven Small, Director of Routes, emphasized the significance of Routes Asia for Xi’an, stating, “The event will bring more international tourists to Xi’an and promote trade and investment. It will also strengthen the airport’s existing network in Southeast and North Asia, while expanding routes to Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.”
Independent analysis has shown that airports that host Routes Asia events see a 5.7% growth in their network within three years compared to similar airports. With over 100 decision-makers from leading and rapidly growing airlines expected to attend Routes Asia 2026, the event will provide Xi’an with a unique opportunity to showcase its infrastructure developments and investment initiatives to key players in the aviation industry.
The Xi’an government leaders expressed their excitement, noting the city’s long history and rich cultural resources. “Xi’an is not only an ancient capital city but also a center for science, technology, innovation, and high-tech industries,” they stated. “These attributes will make the upcoming Routes Asia event even more exciting and impactful.”
Yang Ou, Chairman of China West Airport Group, highlighted the importance of Xi’an Xianyang International Airport as one of China’s top aviation hubs. The airport is undergoing significant expansion, with the third phase of its development set to accommodate 83 million passengers and 1 million tons of cargo annually once completed. “We are committed to building the Air Silk Road of the new era in cooperation with airlines and civil aviation colleagues worldwide,” said Yang Ou.
Routes Asia 2026 in Xi’an is set to enhance global connectivity, offering a strategic platform for airlines, airports, and aviation stakeholders to explore new opportunities, foster collaboration, and drive growth in air service development across Asia and beyond.
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