A Study on the Relationship between Air Transport and Regional Development Based on a Difference-in-Differences Model

Xiaojin Li, Hanyue Li () and Jin Xu
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Xiaojin Li: Civil Aviation University of China
Hanyue Li: Civil Aviation University of China
Jin Xu: Civil Aviation University of China

A chapter in Proceedings of the 2026 4th International Conference on Digital Economy and Management Science (CDEMS 2026), 2026, pp 465-472 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract In a global context, the relationship between air transport and regional development is complex. Given that a large number of small and medium-sized airports in China suffer from insufficient passenger traffic and rely on subsidies, the question of whether air transport can effectively promote regional development remains to be answered. Existing research has largely focused on economic dimensions, with insufficient attention paid to social aspects, and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. To this end, this paper takes Huai’an City in Jiangsu Province, where Lianshui International Airport is located, as a case study. It employs DID and FEM models to conduct empirical analyses from both economic and educational perspectives, and constructs a mediation model to explore the underlying mechanisms. The findings reveal that: (1) air transport promotes economic development; (2) air transport inhibits educational development; (3) air transport presents both advantages and disadvantages, acting as a double-edged sword. Based on these findings, three recommendations are proposed: implementing a talent recruitment strategy; strengthening infrastructure development; and promoting inter-regional cooperation and resource sharing.

Keywords: Air Transport; Regional Development; DID Model (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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DOI: 10.2991/978-94-6239-699-9_50

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