CAI signed the agreement with Hainan Meilan International Airport Co. on Saturday (19 October 2024). 

Changi Airports International (CAI) has entered into a joint venture (JV) agreement with Hainan Meilan International Airport Co., Ltd. to manage the non-aeronautical commercial operations at Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK).

The JV – in which Hainan Meilan International Airport Co. owns 51% and CAI 49% – will have exclusive rights to manage retail, food and beverage, advertising, leisure and commercially important-person (CIP) airport services at the China airport for a period of 10 years, starting from January 2025.

The vision is to transform HAK into a premier travel and retail hub, leveraging Changi Airports’ expertise in airport commercial management.

This will be achieved by creating an integrated consumer hub by optimising the passenger experience, amplifying the retail offerings and introducing new digital services such as e-commerce and loyalty programmes in order to to level-up consumer spending and enhance HAK’s commercial revenue.

“Our collaboration with Meilan Airport stems from the shared vision of creating a world-class airport environment that supports both passenger experience and economic development,” said Eugene Gan, Chief Executive of CAI.

“It marks a key milestone in the expansion of CAI’s global footprint and we look forward to working closely with HAK to transform the airport into a hub of choice for travellers and retailers alike.”

The partnership will leverage Changi Airport’s expertise in airport commercial management to help transform Haikou Meilan International Airport into an integrated consumer hub.

He continued: “With China’s growing economic and tourism potential, this partnership also supports Hainan’s goal to become a global tourism and trade centre.

“By harnessing CAI’s expertise, HAK is poised to attract more international brands, enhance the airport’s infrastructure, and solidify its position as a leader in the region’s travel and trade sectors.”

Haikou Meilan International Airport welcomed 24.34m pax in 2023.

Located in Haikou, the capital city of Hainan Province, HAK is a gateway for domestic and international travellers.

As of October 2024, the airport connects 116 domestic and 30 international destinations.

With regards to retail, expanding the variety and quality of both international and local brands, including the introduction of offshore and international duty free shopping, is a key focus for the CAI-Meilan JV.

F&B is also a priority, with plans to curate a wide selection of dining options that cater to international and local tastes.

The CAI-Meilan JV will expand the variety and quality of international and local brands available at the hub and will introduce offshore and international duty free shopping. 

Strategic advertising and leisure services, including passenger relaxation and entertainment facilities, will be utilised to enhance brand visibility.

Finally, premium passengers will be able to enjoy an elevated experiences thanks to CIP lounge services.

Haikou Meilan International Airport currently connects 116 domestic and 30 international destinations. 

HAK has grown significantly over the years, with a passenger throughput of 24.34 million in 2023, ranking 18th among all airports in China’s mainland.

The airport has a total capacity of 35 million passengers per year, highlighting its potential for further expansion.

Currently, HAK houses offshore duty free shops where domestic travellers are able to purchase duty free merchandise – this is outlined as a key component of its non-aeronautical revenue growth potential.

HAK handled 1.4 million international passengers in 2019, contributing to 6% of overall traffic, and achieved 488,000 international passengers in 2023, signalling an opportunity for growth in this segment.

Photos: Haikou Meilan International Airport

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