The new Terminal 3 and the 5th runway of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport officially started operation on Thursday. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Upon completion, the terminal immediately became a national leader for multiple innovations, boasting several national firsts. It features a panoramic aviation observation platform and lookout, a large-scale terminal decorated with warm color tones, a massive public art system, and flagship restrooms. In keeping with its nature theme, it is filled with flora. Its ancient tree park and botanical garden are firsts for an airport in China, and its airside original ecological garden is now the nation's largest.

Airport officials described Terminal 3 as blending "Chinese style, southern charm, international appeal, and contemporary sense", setting a new paradigm for China's airport terminals.