HONG KONG- Cathay Pacific (CX) welcomed the Government of Hong Kong’s comprehensive plans to enhance its aviation hub status through the Three-Runway System initiative and Airport City expansion, as announced in the 2024 Policy Address.
The development aims to boost visitor traffic, attract international events, and draw skilled professionals to the region.
Hong Kong Three-Runway System
Cathay Group CEO Ronald Lam emphasizes Hong Kong International Airport’s strategic position as a leading international travel hub and global cargo gateway.
The Three-Runway System promises substantial growth potential, projecting capacity increases of tens of millions of passengers and millions of cargo tonnes annually.
The expanded Airport City development will create additional tourism and retail opportunities, strengthening Hong Kong’s position in global aviation. This integrated airport ecosystem represents a significant advancement in the region’s transportation infrastructure.
The government’s strategy focuses on strengthening mainland China’s air connections and enhancing cooperation with Belt and Road nations. New initiatives target increased connectivity with Middle Eastern and ASEAN markets, creating expanded business and tourism opportunities within these regions.
Cathay pledges active support for Hong Kong’s aviation development as the city’s flagship carrier. The airline group commits to serving 100 global destinations by 2025, demonstrating its role in expanding Hong Kong’s international connectivity.
Supporting Govt to Establish Big Hub
Cathay Pacific strengthens its commitment to Hong Kong’s evolving mega-event tourism strategy, maintaining strategic partnerships with the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority.
The airline continues its sponsorship of signature events like the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, enhancing the city’s global visibility.
The airline endorses government efforts to improve Greater Bay Area connectivity through enhanced intermodal transportation. Cathay Pacific collaborates on strengthening the Fly-Via-Zhuhai-Hong Kong passenger service and developing international cargo operations between Hong Kong and Zhuhai airports.
CEO Ronald Lam highlights Cathay’s position as the premier cargo operator at Hong Kong International Airport, the world’s busiest cargo hub. The HKIA Dongguan Logistics Park expansion promises increased processing capacity and enhanced global cargo transshipment capabilities.
The carrier supports government initiatives promoting sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) adoption, responding to growing international environmental demands. This alignment with sustainability goals positions Hong Kong’s aviation sector for future regulatory requirements.
Hong Kong’s talent development strategy focuses on strengthening admission schemes to support the city’s “eight centers” initiative. These measures aim to attract specialized professionals crucial for sustained economic growth.
The 2024 Policy Address outlines comprehensive developments for Hong Kong’s aviation sector, with Cathay Pacific expressing confidence in the city’s long-term prospects as an international aviation hub. These initiatives represent strategic investments in Hong Kong’s transportation infrastructure and economic future.
How 3rd Runway will Help Cathay and HKG?
The third runway expansion will increase Hong Kong International Airport’s annual capacity to 120 million passengers and 10 million tonnes of cargo, representing a 50% growth. This development aligns with China’s Air Silk Road strategy within the Belt and Road Initiative framework, strengthening Hong Kong’s position in global aviation networks.
Hong Kong International Airport advances its third runway construction while concurrent infrastructure developments continue on the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge through 2024.
The Greater Bay Area (GBA) presents significant market potential with its 67 million residents. The bridge infrastructure enhances Hong Kong Airport’s accessibility from western GBA regions, challenging Macao’s traditional market dominance in these areas.
Shenzhen Airport emerges as a strong competitor, expanding its international network with direct routes to major destinations including Los Angeles and Sydney. This competition intensifies the regional aviation market dynamics.
Hong Kong Airport implements comprehensive service upgrades to manage increased passenger flow. These improvements include enhanced online check-in systems and expanded check-in locations across GBA ferry ports and new Boundary Crossing Facilities.
Discussions proceed with airport authorities and rail operators regarding potential check-in services at West Kowloon Station.
The airport authority explores flexible check-in solutions, including temporary facilities at major event venues like the Hong Kong Conference and Exhibition Centre. This initiative aims to streamline passenger processing during peak periods.
The proposed joint immigration desk at West Kowloon Station promises reduced processing times for Airport Express passengers. Airlines develop integrated fare products, currently offering ferry-flight combinations, with plans to expand to bus-flight packages, simplifying passenger booking processes.
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