Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) announced that the renewed aerodrome licence to operate Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) was issued by Civil Aviation Department to AAHK, with the Third Runway and associated taxiways included in the licence.

The Third Runway is planned to commence operation this year as scheduled.

In a statement, it said the amendments to the Map of Restricted Area Order under the Airport Authority Ordinance (Cap. 483), made to reflect the changes in the boundaries of the Restricted Area arising from the latest developments at HKIA, also came into effect May 31.

AAHK said the new boundaries of the Restricted Area delineated under the Airport Authority Ordinance (Cap. 483) include the Third Runway and associated infrastructure.  

"Before the amendments came into effect, a thorough security search and checks were carried out on the Third Runway and its associated taxiways, and buildings including the Airport North Fire Station and Observation Facility, and along the seashore," AAHK added.