A Look at General Airport Management Regulations (CCAR-138)
This report provides a brief overview of the background and key highlights of the regulations, followed by a translation of the full text.
Starting April 1, 2025, China’s general aviation (GA) sector will enter a new phase of development with the implementation of the General Airport Management Regulations General Airport Management Regulations (CCAR-138; Order No. 11 of 2024), issued by the Ministry of Transport.
The regulations aim to streamline the construction, management, and operation of general airports and provide a clear framework for the growth of the low-altitude economy.
As of December 31, 2024, China had 475 registered general airports, an increase of 26 from 2023— representing an increase of 6% .
Among these, 111 airports had obtained general airport operation certificates, while 364 airports (including Category B general airports and Category A airports exclusively for helicopter use) had completed registration through the General Airport Information Management System.
To further close the GA airport infrastructure gap, the new regulations are expected to accelerate the construction of over 500 additional airports during the 14th Five-Year Plan period.
The expansion is set to improve connectivity in remote and underserved areas while supporting key initiatives such as rural revitalization, agricultural modernization, and emergency response.
By addressing long-standing ambiguities in the industry, the regulations aim to clarify the roles of local governments, enhance construction standards, and introduce a more structured approach to airport planning and approval.
This report provides a brief overview of the background and key highlights of the regulations, followed by a translation of the full text.
Let’s get into it.
Regulations and Policies Related to General Airports
