“Better city, better life” is the Shanghai 2010 World Exposition motto. In accordance with it, one of the city’s airport becomes bigger, more convenient and more energy efficient.

Shanghai Hongqiao Airport (上海红桥机场)’s new Terminal No. 2 as well as a second runway officially opened on March 16. Hongqiao is the city’s second airport after Pudong International airport (浦东国际机场). It is mainly a big hub for inland flights. The new construction will increase the airport’s flight capacity by 60%. It will also improve the passengers’ comfort and diminish queuing time. Furthermore it is well connected to the city’s public transportation network with a new subway station.

During the reorganisation and expansion of the airport, a lot of effort went into energy saving measures like solar energy, etc.  As a result, the rejuvenated airport will be able to save up to 65% of its energy costs.

The opening comes in time, a month and a half before the beginning of the Shanghai 2010 World Expo. The extension of the airport is part of the city’s equipment enhancement plan for this event.

According to the airport’s homepage, almost all inland flights have been moved to the new terminal.

Chinese sources: 上海虹桥机场2号航站楼16日投入运营; 上海虹桥机场2号航站楼正式启用(组图); 虹桥机场改扩建后节能65%