Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) is a statutory body established in 1995, responsible for the operation and strategic development of Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), one of the world’s busiest and most advanced air transport hubs. As the sole operator of HKIA, AAHK plays a pivotal role in positioning Hong Kong as a global aviation and logistics center, supporting regional economic development and global connectivity.
Core Business
AAHK manages the full spectrum of airport operations, infrastructure development, and future-ready aviation innovations. Its core functions include:
- Operating and maintaining HKIA’s terminals, runways, and associated facilities.
- Planning and executing large-scale infrastructure projects, including the Three-Runway System (3RS).
- Enhancing service quality, safety, and efficiency across airport stakeholders.
- Driving the growth of the "Airport City" and non-aeronautical revenue streams.
The authority also oversees strategic investments and airport management services outside Hong Kong, including operations in Zhuhai, Hangzhou, and beyond.
Product and Service Offerings
AAHK’s comprehensive portfolio includes:
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Airport Operations & Management:
- Manages over 1,100 daily flight movements (pre-pandemic levels).
- Operates automated baggage systems, air traffic facilities, and ground transport integration.
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Three-Runway System (3RS):
- A major expansion project completed in 2024, increasing annual capacity to 120 million passengers and 10 million tonnes of cargo.
- Includes new Terminal 2 Concourse, Automated People Mover, and Baggage Handling System.
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Airport City Development:
- Includes SkyCity, 11 SKIES (commercial hub), and Skytropolis, a lifestyle and retail ecosystem.
- Integrated developments for retail, entertainment, logistics, and hospitality.
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Education & Training:
- Hong Kong International Aviation Academy provides certified programs and technical training to over 10,000 trainees annually.
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Event & Exhibition Services:
- AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE), located adjacent to the airport, is a major convention and performance venue with over 70,000 sqm of space.
Specialization and Core USP
AAHK’s strategic advantages include:
- Geographic Positioning: Within 5 hours’ flight to half the world’s population.
- Integrated Multi-modal Transport: Direct air, sea, and rail connectivity with the Greater Bay Area (GBA).
- Innovation Leadership: Early adoption of AI, biometrics, and smart mobility across passenger and cargo services.
- Green Aviation Development: Roadmap to achieve Net Zero Carbon by 2050, with interim target of 55% reduction by 2035.
The airport’s resilience, scalability, and smart systems have consistently earned HKIA recognition as one of the world’s best airports.
Financial and Traffic Data
According to the Airport Authority’s 2023/24 Annual Report:
- Revenue (FY2023/24): HK$17.1 billion (~USD $2.2 billion)
- Profit: HK$4.2 billion (~USD $538 million)
- Passenger Traffic: Rebounded to 45 million (2023), a 450% YoY growth from 2022.
- Cargo Throughput: 4.3 million tonnes, retaining HKIA’s status as World’s Busiest Cargo Airport for 13 consecutive years.
Post-COVID recovery trends point to full traffic normalization by 2025.
Capabilities
- Three-Runway System (3RS): Operational with enhanced aircraft movement capacity.
- Cargo Megaports: Automated cargo terminals capable of 7,000 ULDs/day.
- Smart Airport Systems: Biometric boarding, autonomous vehicle trials, real-time baggage tracking.
- Green Infrastructure: Largest solar farm in Hong Kong, waste-to-energy systems, and electric GSE transition.
Certifications and Compliance
AAHK and HKIA comply with:
- ICAO Safety & Security Standards
- ISO 14001 – Environmental Management
- ISO 45001 – Occupational Health and Safety
- ACI Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) – Level 3+ Neutrality
As a statutory body, AAHK adheres to Hong Kong’s public governance and audit frameworks.
Target Market
AAHK serves a diversified global stakeholder base:
- Airlines & Cargo Carriers: Supporting over 120 airlines flying to 220 destinations worldwide.
- Retail & F&B Brands: Over 300 retail outlets and 80+ food & beverage concessions within terminals.
- MICE Organizers & Event Planners: Utilizing AsiaWorld-Expo and the emerging SkyCity commercial zone.
- Investors & Developers: Public-private partnerships in Airport City and logistics zones.
Additionally, AAHK operates and consults on airport projects across the Greater Bay Area and Asia-Pacific, extending its influence beyond Hong Kong.
Major Achievements
- Completed the HK$141.5 billion Three-Runway System project on schedule.
- Maintained World’s No.1 Cargo Airport position (by volume) since 2010.
- Recognized as “Best Global Airport” multiple times by Skytrax and ACI.
- Opened 11 SKIES – largest retailtainment complex in Hong Kong (2023).
- Established the HK International Aviation Academy, the first in the Greater China region.
- Achieved carbon neutrality for terminal operations through renewable integration and energy efficiency programs.
Airport Authority Hong Kong continues to set benchmarks for operational excellence, sustainability, and strategic infrastructure development—solidifying Hong Kong International Airport’s role as a global aviation leader and a catalyst for regional innovation.