The Battle for Airspace: The Turbulent Skies Over Beijing

The competitive landscape of Beijing's aviation market has reached new heights with the recent developments surrounding the coveted airport slots at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and the newly inaugurated Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX). The saga of slot allocation among China's major airlines underscores the intense rivalries and strategic maneuvers in one of the world's busiest air traffic hubs.

Precious Slots at Capital Airport

Before Daxing's inauguration in 2019, securing a slot at Beijing Capital was likened to finding gold due to the severe limitations and high demand. Prime routes such as Beijing to Shanghai and Beijing to Guangzhou were tightly controlled by major carriers like Air China, which held about 44% of these valuable assets. The situation left smaller and regional airlines struggling for access, often managing only a few slots, highlighting the disparity in operational capabilities and market access.

Strategic Shifts with Daxing's Opening

Daxing Airport was envisioned as a game-changer for the Beijing region, aimed at alleviating the pressure on Capital Airport. With this new facility, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) orchestrated a major realignment. Air China retained its base at Capital Airport, maintaining dominance there, while rivals China Eastern and China Southern were slated to move to Daxing, each promised 40% of the new airport's slots.

This reallocation was not just about easing congestion but also about strategically positioning airlines to better serve their primary markets and international connections. The plan also barred airlines from operating at both airports, a policy aimed at streamlining operations and enhancing competitive balance.

Tensions and Reconciliations

The transition, however, was fraught with challenges. China Eastern, historically strong on the Capital-Shanghai route, faced significant setbacks with the move. The relocation threatened its stronghold on this lucrative corridor, prompting intense negotiations and strategic lobbying with aviation authorities. In a dramatic turn of events, the CAAC revised its decision, allowing China Eastern to maintain some operations at Capital to safeguard its key market.

Infrastructure and Investment at Daxing

In parallel, China Southern embraced the opportunity at Daxing to expand its footprint. The airline embarked on significant investments, including establishing Xiong'an Airlines and constructing extensive support facilities, signaling its long-term commitment to becoming a dual-hub carrier with bases in Guangzhou and Beijing.

The Global Disruptor: COVID-19

Just as the airlines were adjusting to the new dynamics, the COVID-19 pandemic emerged as a global disruptor. The stringent health crisis protocols led to temporary routing of international flights back to Capital, upending the carefully laid plans and expected growth trajectories at Daxing.

Looking Ahead: A Post-Pandemic Recovery

As the world emerges from the shadows of the pandemic, Beijing's airports are gearing up for a resurgence in traffic. Daxing, in particular, is poised to play a critical role in the region's aviation strategy, targeting ambitious passenger throughput by 2025. The landscape continues to evolve, with each airline adapting to the post-pandemic realities and recalibrating strategies for a future where air travel regains its pre-pandemic vigor.