Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has officially commissioned its Three-runway System (3RS) today. The commencement of operations marks a significant milestone in the region’s aviation development.
All three runways will now operate simultaneously, dramatically expanding the airport’s capacity. KIA is targeted to serve 120 million passengers and handle 10 million tonnes of cargo annually within the next decade.
Enhanced Capacity and Future Vision
With all three runways now operational, HKIA is poised to significantly boost its capacity. The airport aims to handle 120 million passengers and 10 million tonnes of cargo annually within the next decade.
This expansion will not only facilitate increased passenger and cargo traffic. The development will also further strengthen Hong Kong’s connectivity to global markets.
3RS: A Multi-Year Project
Construction of the 3RS commenced in August 2016. The new North Runway was inaugurated in November 2022. At the same time, the Centre Runway underwent reconfiguration work to integrate with the new system. Airport authorities conducted rigorous flight checks and emergency response drills to ensure the safety and efficiency of the expanded airport.
As air traffic demand continues to grow, HKIA will gradually increase the number of take-offs and landings to accommodate the increased capacity. The 3RS represents a significant investment in Hong Kong’s future, positioning the city as a global aviation and logistics powerhouse.
Commissioning Ceremony Marks Event
Several high-ranking officials from Hong Kong and mainland China attended the commissioning ceremony. The broad spread of official guests served to highlight the collaborative effort behind this ambitious project.
John KC Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) addressed the gathering. He emphasized the importance of the 3RS in supporting the region’s economic development.
“This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the PRC. The three-runway system of HKIA has been completed and is now in operation. It will carry passengers from around the country and cargo to more destinations. It provides more options for global passenger and cargo flow into the Mainland, which is particularly significant.”
“HKIA is an important gateway to the world for Hong Kong and the entire Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, playing a strategic role in social and economic development.”
HKIA as a Major Aviation Hub
Fred Lam, Chairman of Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), expressed his confidence in the 3RS’s ability to solidify Hong Kong International Airport HKIA’s position as a world-class aviation hub. The expansion will not only enhance air traffic capacity but also drive the development of Airport City, a new landmark that will attract visitors and stimulate economic growth.
The 3RS will serve as a catalyst for broader economic development. The expanded airport will generate new jobs, attract investment, and stimulate growth in sectors such as tourism, logistics, and retail.
By enhancing Hong Kong’s connectivity to the world, the 3RS will also solidify the city’s position as a leading international business and financial center.
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