It would be located on an artificial island in Hongtang Bay, about 20 kilometres (12 mi) west of Sanya.

Construction began in 2017, and the airport was expected to be opened in December 2020.

[3][4] In 2020, part of the construction of the artificial island was deemed illegal, and further land reclamation was halted.

[7] The original plans were for 29.95 km2 (11.56 sq mi) of sea airport used, 23.99 km2 (9.26 sq mi) land area, 4 runways, 3 terminal buildings and corresponding supporting auxiliary area.

[8][9] This article about an airport in the People's Republic of China is a stub.