Paul Chan reaffirms Hong Kong airport hub strength
Financial Secretary Paul Chan has reaffirmed the critical role of Hong Kong’s aviation sector in driving the city’s economic growth, citing a sharp rise in passenger numbers and major infrastructure overhauls that are cementing its status as an international aviation hub. Writing in his weekly blog on Sunday, Chan highlighted the breadth of the city's air network, noting that around 140 airlines…
Financial Secretary Paul Chan emphasized the vital role of Hong Kong's aviation sector in the city's economic growth. In his weekly blog post, Chan highlighted the substantial increase in passenger numbers and major infrastructure improvements, cementing Hong Kong's position as an international aviation hub. According to Chan, around 140 airlines connect Hong Kong to more than 225 destinations worldwide, offering travelers a wide range of flexible options.
The airport recorded over 200,000 aircraft movements in the first half of the year, a 4.4 percent increase compared to the previous year. Passenger traffic climbed by 11.7 percent, reaching 32.8 million travelers. Chan attributed this growth to efficient connectivity and major events, which have attracted more business and leisure visitors to Hong Kong.
The tourism sector has also benefited, with visitor arrivals reaching 31.22 million in the first seven months of the year, a 12 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Looking ahead, Chan stressed that Hong Kong is expanding its aviation network, including new bilateral civil aviation agreements and upgraded airport infrastructure.
The three-runway system, now in its second year, is boosting aircraft movement capacity. The newly opened Terminal 2 departure facilities, serving 15 airlines, are expected to handle about eight million passenger trips in their first year. The Airport Authority is also implementing a smart airport initiative, utilizing biometrics and artificial intelligence to streamline the passenger experience.
Chan further discussed the Skytopia project, which aims to transform the airport into an integrated tourism and commercial landmark, with the new arts hub, AsiaWorld-Expo expansion, and 500-berth marina set to open in 2028. Chan concluded by emphasizing that Hong Kong's status as an international aviation hub is crucial to the local aviation industry and enables the city to function as a super value-adder and a super connector.
Written by urgent.news from RTHK English's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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