New Security Measures Start on 21 March

(HONG KONG, 19 March 2007) - Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) will provide more than 100 additional Airport Ambassadors and security personnel and a range of other initiatives to facilitate the implementation of new security measures that limit the amount of liquids, gels and aerosols that can be carried in the hand baggage of departing and transit passengers from 21 March 2007.

The new measures, which have been introduced by the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) to comply with new guidelines from the International Civil Aviation Organization, require all liquids, gels and aerosols in hand baggage to be stored in containers with a capacity of less than 100 ml and be packed in one transparent, re-sealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of one litre. Each passenger may carry only one re-sealable plastic bag.

HKIA will deploy additional security staff to ensure the smooth inspection of passengers' hand baggage. Tables will be set up at each check-in aisle in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 for passengers who need to repack their bags.  Together with the airlines, Airport Authority Hong Kong (AA) will deploy staff to assist passengers with understanding the new measures.

Regular announcements will be made in the terminals, and signs and video messages explaining the new measures will be prominently displayed. Explanatory leaflets will be distributed to passengers in HKIA's terminals, in five Pearl River Delta ports connected with HKIA by cross-boundary ferries, and through airlines, other transport operators, travel agents and hotels.

AA's Head of Safety, Security, Environmental & Planning Services, John Lamond, said passengers should arrive at the airport earlier, particularly during the initial phase of implementation. He added, "We are working closely with the CAD, the Aviation Security Company Ltd. (AVSECO), airlines and other business partners to minimise inconvenience to passengers."

"The Airport Authority is committed to providing a hassle-free passenger experience and upholding the highest standards of safety and security. Passengers can help us achieve these goals by ensuring their liquids, gels and aerosols are properly packed before coming to the airport."

For more information about the new measures, travellers should consult their airline, or visit the websites of the CAD (www.cad.gov.hk) or HKIA (www.hongkongairport.com).