Chongqing - On March 28, the much-awaited trial operation of the T3B terminal at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport kicked off. The three-day trial began with two smooth departures, carrying over 420 passengers to Beijing.

Passengers make their way to the boarding gates at the T3B terminal. (Photo/Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport)

Two flights took off from the new terminal on the first day of operations. The first, Hainan Airlines HU7268, departed at 09:00 AM for Beijing, followed by Air China CA1450 at 10:00 AM. Both flights were operated by Boeing 787 wide-body passenger aircraft.

According to airport authorities, the T3B terminal has rolled out a series of new features to enhance the passenger experience. Several new information counters have been installed in high-traffic areas. The gate between T3A and T3B was opened at 06:50 AM to ensure smooth transitions. 

Chongqing International Jiangbei Airport issued T3B boarding pass guides to passengers for their flights. (Photo/Chongqing International Jiangbei Airport)

Additionally, passengers can enjoy a variety of dining and shopping options, including local favorites such as Chongqing Noodles (Xiaomian), Chongqing Specialties, and Tea Yan Yue Se, as well as global brands like McDonald's and Tim Hortons.

During the trial phase, passengers will check in, drop off baggage, and complete security checks at the T3A terminal. After clearing security, those with gates "J," "K," "L," and "M" will take the monorail to T3B for boarding.

Certain areas and facilities of the T3B terminal will be closed to the public, and only a limited number of flights will operate from the new terminal to ensure smooth testing and operations.

Additionally, passengers are reminded that the new check-in security area on Level B1 of T3A, located at the exit of Chongqing Rail Transit Line 10, will not be in use during this period. Travelers should proceed to the departure hall on Level L4 of T3A for check-in and security procedures. 

Domestic arrivals will continue to be picked up on Level L2 of T3A, with passengers waiting at the domestic exit. T3B will exclusively handle domestic flights, while international arrivals and departures will remain at T3A.

T3B terminal spans 360,000 square meters and is the world's largest satellite hall. Once fully operational, the terminal will enable the airport to accommodate up to 80 million passengers, 580,000 aircraft movements, and 1.2 million tons of cargo and mail annually. This expansion will significantly bolster Chongqing's position as a key international aviation hub.