Terminal 3 of Sanya Phoenix International Airport officially began trial operations on February 1. Inside the bright and spacious new terminal, Ya Ya, the mascot of the 6th Asian Beach Games Sanya 2026 (the Games), has greeted visitors from near and far, turning T3 into a new hotspot for Games-themed photo opportunities.

Exterior view of the new terminal

Photo: Sanya Phoenix International Airport

As travellers stroll through main thoroughfares like departure halls and escalator entrances, they're greeted by large, eye-catching posters for the Games that instantly draw their attention. With bright colours and lively designs, these displays highlight key details such as the event dates and venues, allowing visitors to brush up on the Games’ basics as they make their way through the airport.

Meanwhile, the cheerful mascot Ya Ya delights travellers by appearing all around the terminal in fun beach sportswear, warmly greeting everyone with a friendly wave at every turn. With their playful gestures and cheerful smiles, the mascot captures the lively spirit of the Games, sharing the sunny warmth and inviting atmosphere of tropical Sanya.

Posters of the 6th Asian Beach Games Sanya 2026 are displayed throughout the new terminal, making it a new Games-themed hotspot.

“These posters are so vivid and really capture the excitement of the Games! You can feel the buzz,” one visitor shared, "I’m really excited to come back and watch the competitions in person!”

The prominent display of Games-themed elements in the new terminal marks an essential step in building anticipation for the Games. It communicates to arriving passengers that the sporting celebration is just around the corner, embodying the city’s aim of “hosting one great event to elevate an entire city.”

The new domestic terminal adopts a front-row layout with a mixed arrival-and-departure flow. It features 40 check-in counters, 23 security screening lanes and seven boarding bridges, and is connected to Terminals 1 and 2 via corridors to enable integrated, coordinated operations.

With T3 now in service, the total terminal area of Sanya Phoenix International Airport has expanded to 228,000 square meters, further enhancing operational capacity, improving the passenger travel experience, and raising overall service standards. During the trial phase, services and facilities will continue to be optimised to provide travellers with smoother, more comfortable journeys and better service.

Posters of the 6th Asian Beach Games Sanya 2026 are displayed throughout the new terminal, making it a new Games-themed hotspot.

Outside T3, the entire city of Sanya has embraced the festive atmosphere of the Games. From transport hubs to city streets, from tourist attractions to commercial centres, Games-themed decorations and activities can be seen everywhere, as anticipation grows and public participation continues to rise.

Posters of the 6th Asian Beach Games Sanya 2026 are displayed throughout the new terminal, making it a new Games-themed hotspot.

Come April, feel the gentle coconut breezes and soothing ocean rhythms of Sanya come alive as the passion for sport takes centre stage. Ya Ya is eagerly awaiting visitors at Terminal 3, excited to welcome everyone to this fantastic celebration of beach sports in Asia. Experience the vibrant energy and irresistible charm of Sanya’s blue skies and sparkling seas.