Hong Kong International Airport's (HKIA) third runway is soon ready for take-off six years after its construction began in 2016.

The Airport Authority of Hong Kong said it "reached a milestone" in getting the runway ready for use after satisfying the requirements provided by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

The partial launch of the new runway is expected this year.

"The global aviation community is informed in accordance with the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) that the Third Runway at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is ready for commencing operation, marking a milestone of readiness preparation," AAHK said in a statement on April 21.

"Updated information on the Third Runway is issued in advance to global aviation operators to ensure their readiness when the Third Runway comes into operation," it added.

Earlier in April, the flight check of the Third Runway was satisfactorily completed. Flight checks began for its Third Runway on March 26 this year.

"In the meantime, Airport Authority Hong Kong and Civil Aviation Department are working closely together on other preparation work, including statutory procedures, drills, and exercises for the commissioning of the Third Runway," AAHK added.

The construction of the HK$141.5 billion (US$18.04 billion) project began in 2016.