After a painstaking 17-year journey from its inception in 2008, the Lishui Airport in Zhejiang Province, a marvel of modern architecture conceived by MAD Architects, has finally opened its gates. This monumental achievement not only provides the region with its inaugural direct link to China's expansive national aviation network but also ushers in a new era of connectivity and economic prosperity for the previously less accessible, mountainous southwestern Zhejiang.
Lishui Airport: A Landmark Achievement in Regional Connectivity
In a momentous announcement, the Lishui Airport, a testament to visionary planning and architectural brilliance by MAD Architects, officially commenced its operations on February 12, 2026. Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Zhejiang Province, this new airport, covering an expansive area of 12,100 square meters with a building height of 23.95 meters, represents a pivotal development for the region. The project, meticulously designed by a team led by Principal Partners Ma Yansong, Dang Qun, and Yosuke Hayano, along with Associate Partners Liu Huiying and Kin Li, has transformed the remote mountainous terrain of southwestern Zhejiang. The comprehensive design involved numerous consultants, including Shanghai Xian Dai Architectural Decoration & Landscape Design Research Institute for interior design and lighting, Z' scape Landscape Planning and Design and Huadong Engineering Corporation Limited for landscape, and RFR Shanghai for facade consultancy. The construction was expertly managed by Beijing Construction Engineering Group. This long-anticipated opening establishes Lishui's first direct connection to China's national air travel infrastructure, significantly enhancing accessibility and paving the way for unprecedented growth in tourism and commerce. It stands as a beacon of progress, promising to bring the dynamic pulse of modern travel to the heart of Zhejiang's serene highlands.
The successful completion and launch of Lishui Airport underscore the profound impact that innovative architectural design and strategic infrastructure development can have on regional transformation. This project not only serves as a vital transportation hub but also embodies a harmonious blend of human ingenuity and natural beauty. It inspires us to consider how thoughtful design can overcome geographical challenges, fostering greater integration and opening up new avenues for cultural exchange and economic vitality. The airport stands as a symbol of progress, demonstrating that with perseverance and a clear vision, even the most ambitious projects can come to fruition, benefiting communities for generations to come.