China is preparing for a significant increase in border crossings during the five-day May Day holiday, with an expected average of 2.15 million daily crossings, marking a 27% rise from last year. The National Immigration Administration (NIA) predicts that the peak of this cross-border travel will occur on May 1 and May 5.
Key Details on Border Traffic and Airport Activity
International Airports: Major international airports in China will experience a steady rise in traffic. Shanghai Pudong International Airport is projected to lead with 101,000 daily crossings, followed by Guangzhou Baiyun Airport with 50,000, and Beijing Capital Airport with 45,000 daily crossings.
Cross-Border Travel Growth: As travel between Hong Kong, Macao, and the Chinese mainland continues to grow, the May Day holiday is expected to see even higher volumes. This surge is expected to be further amplified by several major events scheduled across these regions.
What This Means for Travelers
Increased Border Crossings: Travelers should be prepared for busier border crossings, with more people expected to head abroad or return home for the holiday.
Border Management: The NIA has emphasized the importance of efficient border management, urging authorities to monitor cross-border traffic closely. The agency is also working to ensure that wait times at border crossings do not exceed 30 minutes, with adequate security staffing in place.
This holiday is shaping up to be one of the busiest periods for cross-border travel in China, and travelers are encouraged to stay informed about potential delays or changes in their travel plans.