Target Completion By 2010

The possibility of having a third general aviation airport in Shanghai by 2010 is being considered by the regional aviation authority.

"Shanghai should have five to six general aviation airports with 500 to 600 landing spots and 50 to 60 general aircrafts as an international metropolis," said Guo Youhu, vice director of the East China branch of the General Administration of Civil Aviation when the branch approved the establishment of the city's first general aviation company.

Gaodong Airport and Longhua Airport, the existing general aviation airports, can't fulfill the city's demands," Guo said.

Gaodong Airport is China's first helicopter base for sea rescue and is close to Pudong International Airport. Longhua Airport is an emergency landing site for rescue work, police patrols, and fire-fighting operations to the southwest of the city, according to the Shanghai Daily.

China is eager to turn itself into a major international air service hub. Roadwork surrounding Pudong International Airport as well as groundwork and drainage projects for its third runway are underway, according to China Daily.

The new runway will be 11,154 feet long and 197 feet wide... and capable of accommodating an Airbus A380-800. It will be put into use before Beijing hosts the 2008 Olympics.

FMI: http://english.gov.cn/2005-10/22/content_81677.htm