Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has marked the completion of the runway pavement works for the new Third Runway, a major milestone of the Three-runway System (3RS) project at the financial hub's gateway.

Carrie Lam, chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administration Region, officiated the ceremony noting how the “3RS is an integral part” of Hong Kong's vision to transform from a ‘city airport’ into an ‘Airport City.’

“According to an earlier forecast, 3RS would generate direct, indirect and induced contributions of about 5% of the gross domestic product of Hong Kong by 2030,” Lam noted, adding that the 3RS project would inject impetus to HKIA, as well as the overall Hong Kong economy.

Pax, cargo targets

Meanwhile, Jack So, chairman of the Hong Kong Airport Authority (AA), expressed optimism that the new runway will commence operations in 2022. 

“With the completion of reclamation and runway pavement works, we are confident that the new runway will commence operations next year as planned. Other works including expansion of Terminal 2 (T2), construction of T2 Concourse, a new automated people mover system and high-speed baggage handling system will be completed in 2024 on schedule and within budget,” So said.

“After its expansion, the airport will be able to handle the targeted annual passenger and cargo volume of around 120 million and 10 million tonnes respectively, enabling Hong Kong to enhance its status as an international aviation hub,” he added.

The AA is also developing an Airport City, including a logistics centre slated to be completed in phases from 2023 to 2027.