FS visits Hong Kong International Airport and three-runway system site (with photos)

     The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, visited Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) and the construction site of HKIA's three-runway system (3RS) today (April 12) to learn about the progress of major projects of the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AA). Mr Chan was accompanied by the Chairman of the AA, Mr Jack So, and the Chief Executive Officer of the AA, Mr Fred Lam. The Permanent Secretary for Transport and Housing (Transport), Ms Mable Chan, also joined the visit.

     Mr Chan was first briefed on the progress of various projects under the Airport City strategy, including the 3RS, SKYCITY and AsiaWorld-Expo Phase 2, smart airport developments, as well as projects to strengthen connectivity within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and cargo developments. The Airport City strategy has been put forward by the AA to fully capitalise on the unique geographical advantage of HKIA, capture opportunities arising from various new infrastructural developments in Hong Kong, and integrate and achieve greater synergy between the core functions of the airport and related industries, thereby strengthening HKIA's status as an international aviation hub and creating a new landmark for Hong Kong.

     Mr Chan said, "HKIA has been the world's leading international passenger and cargo airport. Notwithstanding the challenges faced by the aviation industry amid the COVID 19 pandemic, the AA is committed to its vision and plans for the further development of HKIA to enhance its capacity, functionality and synergy with partners in the GBA. The Airport City strategy will broaden HKIA's catchment and harness our competitiveness, consolidating Hong Kong's status as a preeminent international aviation hub."

     Mr Chan was also updated on the latest progress of the 3RS construction works. Reclamation of the area required for commissioning the third runway has been completed and handed over to the follow-on contractors. The AA has been maintaining the progress of the 3RS construction project with a view to commissioning the third runway in 2022 and the 3RS in 2024 as planned to cater for long-term air traffic demand. Upon full commissioning of the 3RS, HKIA's annual passenger handling capacity will be around 100 million and its annual cargo handling capacity will be around 9 million tonnes.

     "The pandemic has brought about a significant impact on the aviation industry around the world, but I am confident that the industry and air traffic will gradually recover after the pandemic. The various long-term development projects at HKIA are critical in order to capitalise on the opportunities presented by the market when it recovers. The 3RS will help maintain Hong Kong's overall competitiveness as an international aviation hub, create employment opportunities and benefit the well-being of our community, bringing long-term economic and social benefits to Hong Kong," Mr Chan said.