This research investigates the relationships among 34 major airports in China, analyzing how spatial dependence and heterogeneity influence these relationships. Using a spatial econometric model, it finds a mutually driven aggregation effect in passenger traffic. The relationship shifts from complementarity to competition as geographic distance decreases. The study classifies airports into three hierarchical levels, revealing complementarity between regional trunk and local branch airports, and competition among hub airports. The absence of a hub airport weakens collaboration, highlighting hub airports' importance for network connectivity and efficiency.
