Hong Kong’s skyline just got a new star. On Thursday, the Hong Kong International Airport officially launched its state-of-the-art three-runway system, aiming to boost the city’s status as a global aviation hub.
With this expansion, the airport is set to handle an impressive 120 million passenger trips and 10 million tonnes of cargo each year. That’s a massive leap forward for international travel and trade!
Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, John Lee, shared his excitement about the project. “The new system will greatly enhance the airport’s passenger and cargo capacity, bringing substantial business opportunities to Hong Kong,” he said.
The project, one of the city’s biggest infrastructure developments, kicked off in 2016 and came with a price tag of around HK$141.5 billion (about $18.18 billion). It wasn’t just about adding a runway; the expansion includes an extended Terminal 2, a new concourse, a speedy automated people mover, and a cutting-edge baggage handling system.
Fred Lam, Chairman of the Airport Authority Hong Kong, called the launch a “milestone” for the city. “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 noted.
This development isn’t just about Hong Kong; it’s set to enhance connections for the entire Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, strengthening ties with the rest of the world.
Officials from the national government attended the launch, showing support for Hong Kong’s continued growth and integration into broader development plans.
The third runway itself actually started operations in July 2022, but with the full system now up and running, travelers and businesses can look forward to smoother journeys and faster deliveries.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
