Annual Passenger Throughput at HKIA Hits 70 Million Mark

(HONG KONG, 29 December 2016) – Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) today welcomed its 70 millionth passenger of the year, the first time HKIA’s annual passenger throughput surpassed this remarkable milestone.

Jack So Chak-kwong, Chairman of Airport Authority Hong Kong (AA), greeted the 70 millionth passenger at the arrival gate. The passenger, who is a Taiwanese traveller named Lin Yi-ju, arrived at HKIA from Bangkok this morning. She was presented with HK$30,000 cash coupons from the AA, and two round-trip business-class air tickets for an Asian destination sponsored by Cathay Pacific.

Mr So said, “HKIA’s annual passenger throughput surpassed 60 million for the first time in 2014, and only two years later, today we reached the 70 million mark. The AA is delighted to witness this strong growth momentum. We expect that all three traffic categories – passengers, cargo and flight movements – will set new annual records in 2016. I am particularly grateful to the over 73,000 staff of the airport community, whose concerted efforts have helped maintain efficient operations to receive an ever rising amount of passengers whilst providing a pleasant travel experience for our guests.”

“To meet increasing passenger demand, the AA has initiated a number of major medium- and long-term developments. The construction of the Three-runway System has commenced on 1 August this year, and in the meantime the expansion of Terminal 1 is underway. HKIA will also continue to apply innovations and smart technology with a view to providing even more convenient services for our passengers and enhancing the overall airport experience,” added Mr So.

HKIA is one of the busiest airports in the world. Currently, HKIA is connected to over 190 destinations worldwide, providing about 1,100 daily flights through over 100 airlines. During the year, the efforts of the airport community have been  recognised once again with a range of commendations. To date, HKIA has won more than 60 “best airport” awards.