Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has made headlines in 2024 as it showcases remarkable growth patterns, greatly attributed to the successful implementation of its three-runway operations. This pivotal change has positioned HKIA to recover swiftly and effectively, exceeding pre-pandemic activity levels.

December Breaks Records

The month of December 2024 was particularly outstanding, with flight movements soaring 12.5% year-on-year, resulting in a staggering 33,550 flights. This surge highlights not only a post-pandemic recovery but also the airport’s ability to establish new daily operation records. Furthermore, passenger traffic saw phenomenal growth, with the airport accommodating 5.1 million travelers in December, marking an impressive 18.3% increase compared to the previous year.

This resurgence in passenger numbers was widespread. Routes to Southeast Asia, Mainland China, and Japan recorded exceptional growth, underlining a restored confidence in regional travel and a successful resurgence of critical aviation networks.

Thriving Cargo Operations

The cargo sector at HKIA also exhibited robust performance, with a 6.6% increase year-on-year in December, bringing throughput to 446,000 tonnes. Exports were particularly strong, indicating a vibrant trade environment, especially along established routes with Europe, the Middle East, and Australasia. Overall, 2024 saw exports drive a remarkable 20.2% increase in cargo throughput, highlighting the airport’s pivotal role in global trading networks.

Insights from Leadership

Vivian Cheung, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), expressed enthusiasm for the year’s achievements. Cheung stated, “HKIA achieved remarkable success in 2024. The completion of our Three-runway System in November marks a significant milestone.

She also noted that maintaining the title of the world's busiest cargo airport for the 13th consecutive year underscores the operational excellence at HKIA.

Looking ahead, Cheung mentioned that, after successfully managing the peak Christmas traffic, preparations are already underway for heightened demand during the Chinese New Year, with airlines ramping up their flight schedules.

Overall Performance Metrics

For the entire year of 2024, HKIA processed an impressive 53.1 million passengers and facilitated 363,305 flight movements, representing significant increases of 34.3% and 31.6% respectively from 2023. The airport's cargo operations also demonstrated notable strength, with total throughput growing 14.0%, reaching 4.9 million tonnes.

Expansion and Innovation

As we move into January 2025, HKIA continues to enhance its global connectivity with significant route additions. HK Express has introduced new services to Sendai, while Hong Kong Airlines has resumed flights to Vancouver and Gold Coast. Shenzhen Airlines now connects to Nanjing, and newcomer Air Premia has established services between Hong Kong and Seoul, expanding the airport's international reach further.

Recognition and Awards

HKIA’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. The Three-runway System project received the Prestigious Infrastructure Project accolade at the Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation (CIHT) Hong Kong's 40th Anniversary celebration, marking the airport’s vital contribution to regional mobility.

Additionally, HKIA's excellence was celebrated at the 2024 Sky Choice Travel Awards, where it was honored as both “International Airport of the Year” and “Innovative Airport of the Year.” These awards, presented by the Civil Aviation Administration of China, recognize the airport's contributions to aviation, hospitality, and tourism sectors, especially in economic development and post-pandemic recovery initiatives.

HKIA's robust growth and forward momentum signal a promising future for air travel in the region, drawing the attention of industry stakeholders worldwide. As travelers take to the skies in increasing numbers, HKIA is poised to lead the way into a new era of aviation excellence.