HK aims to boost flight capacity amid high fares and shortages

Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan stated the government is actively working to expand local aviation capacity, including negotiating traffic rights and strengthening connections with Greater Bay Area cities, while addressing global aircraft shortages.

Hong Kong International Airport recorded approximately 61 million passenger trips for the full year, reaching about 85% of pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

During the Legislative Council general meeting, lawmakers raised concerns over high airfares causing a loss of long-haul passengers.

Chan noted the Airport Authority launched the Aviation Network Expansion Scheme the year before last, providing financial incentives to encourage airlines to establish new routes.

As of last month, it had successfully attracted 40 airlines to launch a total of 95 new routes spanning five continents.

Chan emphasised positioning the airport and boosting its competitiveness had long gone beyond competing solely on price. She added the key to future success lay in actively expanding connectivity with Greater Bay Area cities.