Cargo and passenger volumes on the rise in Hong Kong

Cargo volumes at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) continue to go in the right direction, soaring by 14.7% in October, to reach 462,000 tonnes during the month.

The airport also handled 137,000 passengers and 13,995 flight movements, representing year-on-year increases of 72.6% and 28.7%, respectively.

HKG operator, Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), attributes October’s increase in cargo throughput to a 16.5% growth in exports as well as the beginning of the traditional peak period for air cargo shipments.

Imports and transhipments also recorded double-digit growth. Cargo to and from North America, Southeast Asia and Europe experienced the most significant increases during the month.

Due to the on-going COVID-19 pandemic, passenger traffic remained significantly below pre-pandemic levels recorded in 2019. However, outbound transfer passengers from Mainland China to Europe recorded significant increases.

Over the first 10 months of the year, HKG handled 1.1 million passengers and 115,415 flight movements, representing year-on-year declines of 87.6% and 14.8%, respectively. Cargo handled rose 13.3% during the period to 4.1 million tonnes.

AAHK notes that HKG was recently re-accredited in the Airport Health Accreditation programme by Airports Council International, demonstrating the airport’s commitment to prioritising health and safety measures in accordance with international standards and industry best practices.

Vivian Cheung, AAHK’s executive director for airport operations, said: “Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the airport community has demonstrated exceptional commitment and professionalism in maintaining smooth and efficient operations at HKIA and providing safe and pleasant journeys for travellers.

“By introducing a number of hygiene measures designed to ensure passenger safety, and innovative technologies to further enhance the passenger experience, the airport has shown that it stands ready as always to welcome passengers from around the world.”