A significant milestone was reached on Thursday as the Hong Kong International Airport officially commenced operations of its new three-runway system, marking a pivotal enhancement in Hong Kong’s status as an international aviation hub.
The inauguration was graced by John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, who emphasized the substantial business opportunities the new system would bring. “The new system will greatly enhance the airport’s passenger and cargo capacity, bringing substantial business opportunities to Hong Kong,” Lee stated.
Designed to meet the growing demands of global air travel and trade, the three-runway system is expected to enable the airport to handle up to 120 million passenger trips and 10 million tonnes of cargo annually.
Lee highlighted the strategic importance of the Hong Kong International Airport as a crucial gateway for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, urging the aviation industry to swiftly restore air capacity, leverage the region’s advantages, and expand international connections.
Fred Lam, Chairman of the Airport Authority Hong Kong, hailed the operation of the new system as a significant milestone. “The three-runway system will create conditions to further expand the extensive air connectivity network, consolidating Hong Kong’s position as an international aviation hub,” he said.
Attending the launching ceremony, Vice Minister of Transport Xu Chengguang and Deputy Head of the Civil Aviation Administration of China Liang Nan expressed support for Hong Kong’s integration into national development.
Construction of the three-runway system, one of Hong Kong’s largest infrastructure projects in recent years, began in August 2016 and was estimated to cost around 141.5 billion Hong Kong dollars (approximately $18.18 billion). The third runway was put into operation in July 2022.
The expansive project includes the 3,800-meter third runway, an expansion of the Terminal 2 passenger building, a new concourse, an automated people mover system, and a baggage handling system.
As Hong Kong continues to strengthen its role in global aviation, the launch of the three-runway system signifies a commitment to enhancing connectivity and supporting the economic and social development of the region.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
