In response to media enquiries on Boeing B737 MAX aircraft, a spokesman for the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) today (March 12) responded as follows:
There are no Boeing B737 aircraft (including the B737 MAX) registered in Hong Kong. Holders of Air Operator's Certificate (airlines) in Hong Kong mainly use locally registered aircraft. For non-locally registered aircraft, according to the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the State of Registry of the aircraft should ensure the aircraft's safety standards and operation in accordance with ICAO's requirements.
With regard to non-locally registered aircraft operating to and from Hong Kong, it is to the CAD's understanding that SpiceJet of India and Globus Airlines of Russia may currently use B737 MAX aircraft to operate flights to and from Hong Kong International Airport. The CAD is contacting the airlines concerned to understand their aircraft assignments. In addition, Garuda Indonesia of Indonesia and MIAT Mongolian Airlines of Mongolia have used B737 MAX aircraft for flights to and from Hong Kong. The civil aviation authorities concerned have suspended their locally registered B737 MAX aircraft from operation. Passengers may consult their airlines on individual flight arrangements.
As the Federation Aviation Administration of the United States (the type-certification authority of B737 MAX aircraft) affirms the airworthiness of B737 MAX aircraft and the investigation into the Ethiopian Airlines accident is still ongoing, the CAD will closely monitor the developments, the investigation progress and the information of relevant aviation authorities.
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