The third runway at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) was officially commissioned on 25 November, marking a key milestone for the airport’s expansion into a three-runway system (3RS). A ceremony was held at the new Integrated Airport Centre of HKIA.

“Since the construction of the 3RS started in 2016, we have overcome many difficulties and challenges. The project is progressing on schedule with the new runway starting operation in July this year,” said Jack So, chairman of Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK).

“I would like to express my deep gratitude to all airport colleagues for their tremendous efforts in completing the new runway, which provides fresh impetus to economic growth. The Airport City is also developing into a new landmark. These achievements are nothing short of miracles against all odds.”

Construction work on the 3RS started in August 2016. The formation of 650 ha of land (equivalent to Hong Kong’s 34 Victoria Parks) through reclamation was completed in around four years. In September 2021, a ceremony was held to mark the completion of runway pavement works. The 3,800-m-long runway started its operations in July 2022.

According to AAHK, the expansion of Terminal 2, construction of T2 Concourse, a new baggage handling system and automated people mover system are scheduled for completion in 2024 on time and within budget. 

Chan Kwok-ki, Chief Secretary for Administration of Hong Kong, said, “The 3RS will significantly increase the passenger and cargo handling capacity of HKIA. With the distinct advantages of the strong support from the Motherland and our connectivity to the world, Hong Kong will maintain and enhance its status as an international aviation hub, to better dovetail with the macro strategies of the 14th Five-Year Plan and Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.”