Chengdu has initiated the construction of the nation's first simulation and validation airport, marking a significant milestone in its aviation infrastructure. Unlike the traditional 4F-level Shuangliu and Tianfu airports, this new facility will be constructed to the 4E standard, making it the third largest airport in Chengdu. However, this airport stands out for its unique purpose: it will not serve as a hub for aircraft to take off or land. This distinctive characteristic makes it the only airport in the country designed specifically for simulation and validation purposes, without direct aviation transport functionality.

So, what prompts the construction of an airport without actual flight operations? And what role will this facility play in the future? Let’s explore further.

The simulation and validation airport is constructed to mirror the facilities and equipment of a standard civil aviation airport. This includes the terminal building, control tower, a 1200-meter runway, and two taxiways, among others. The terminal alone spans approximately 46,000 square meters, akin to a medium-sized airport terminal. Essentially, if a feature exists in a conventional civil aviation airport, it's replicated in the simulation and validation airport.

Unlike traditional airports, the simulation and validation airport is not tasked with air transportation duties. Instead, it serves as a research facility for civil aviation technology. This includes designated areas for experiments beyond the replica components, such as technology validation buildings for terminals, airside operations, aviation materials, and logistics.

This facility enables experimentation with various airport management and operation technologies, including performance, functionality, and reliability testing of new systems, equipment, and products. The simulation and validation airport allows for ongoing technical tests and improvements, facilitating a quicker transition of scientific and technological achievements into industrial applications and enhancing the working conditions for researchers.

The simulation and validation airport addresses the spatial and temporal challenges faced by aviation science researchers, embodying a mission to advance China's aviation technology sector. It will serve as a base for testing and validating airports, air traffic control, air transport, and emerging technologies. Moreover, it is poised to host aviation science education programs and large-scale technology exhibitions, being a crucial part of the Civil Aviation Science and Technology Innovation Demonstration Zone B. This zone is not only the first of its kind nationwide but also aims to become a leading source of original innovation in civil aviation technology in China, contributing to the high-quality development of the country’s aviation industry.

The airport’s terminal design is inspired by the Sun Bird, with its architecture symbolizing the spread wings of the divine bird, echoing the nearby Tianfu Airport. The project includes the construction of a 1200-meter simulation runway, two taxiways, two sets of vertical connection roads, and eleven stands for various aircraft types. It will serve as a base for testing and validating airports, air transportation, and emerging technologies. The construction of the simulation runway is currently accelerating, and the entrance service building of the simulation and validation airport is now operational. The entire Civil Aviation Science and Technology Innovation Demonstration Zone B is expected to be fully completed by the end of 2025.