Huangdao Naval Air Base (under construction)

The airport was not closed. The premise of closure is incorrect. The facility is a new military development project. The 'closed' designation likely stems from a data entry error in unofficial airport databases, possibly because a site under construction has no active air traffic and was therefore miscategorized.

As of 2023-2024, the site is a newly constructed and likely operational or near-operational military airbase. High-resolution satellite imagery shows a fully completed runway, extensive taxiway systems, large aprons, and numerous support buildings. Critically, dozens of hardened aircraft shelters have been constructed, confirming its military nature. The base is believed to be in the process of becoming fully operational and housing its first squadrons of aircraft as a key installation for the PLAN's North Sea Fleet aviation units.

The facility has no significant operational history as it is a new construction. Its importance is strategic and forward-looking. It is widely identified by military and geopolitical analysts as a major new naval air station for the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). Its primary purpose is believed to be supporting the PLAN's aircraft carrier fleet, which is homeported in nearby Qingdao. The base is purpose-built to accommodate and train pilots for carrier-based fighter jets (such as the J-15 and the future J-35) and other naval aircraft. While sometimes referred to by its public-facing name, 'Qingdao West Coast General Airport' (青岛西海岸通用机场), its immense scale, ~3,500-meter runway, extensive taxiways, and construction of hardened aircraft shelters are all characteristic of a major military airbase, not a typical general aviation airport.

The airport is not 'reopening' but rather beginning its operational life. Its prospect is to become one of China's most important naval air stations. It is strategically located to serve as the primary land-based home for the air wings of the aircraft carriers Liaoning (CV-16) and Shandong (CV-17), as well as future carriers that will be based with the North Sea Fleet in Qingdao. It will be central to the PLAN's power projection capabilities in the Yellow Sea and beyond.