Qingdao, a popular summer resort in east China, has begun to expand its international airport, according to Liu Jianhua, vice mayor of the city.

The project is to be completed in 2003, costing an investment of 1.2 billion yuan (US$145 million).

The runway will be extended to 3,400 meters from the present 2,600 meters. The project also involves the construction of a new parking apron of 100,800 square meters, another new cargo apron of10,000 square meters and a new lounge building covering 45,000 square meters.

Communications, navigation and meteorological facilities will be upgraded. New facilities for fuel and water supply, sewage processing, firefighting and salvage will also be built, according to the plan.

(Eastday.com 10/11/2001)