The Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) has announced a significant reduction in flight operations starting Tuesday (September 23) at 6pm, anticipating severe disruptions throughout Wednesday as Super Typhoon Ragasa approaches the city.
The AA stated that only a "small number of flights" would be allowed to take off and land during this period, utilizing limited time slots approved by the Civil Aviation Department.
Travelers are strongly urged to contact their airlines directly to confirm their flight status and seating before heading to the airport.
In preparation for potential passenger stranded, the AA will set up a temporary rest area on the airport's transition level. Most restaurants and shops in the passenger terminal are expected to remain open during the storm, with some operating 24 hours. The authority will also distribute water and food to passengers in need.
The AA further warned that land transport to the airport would be affected once the No. 8 typhoon signal is hoisted. The Airport Express train service will be suspended when a No. 9 signal or higher is issued. In such a scenario, an electronic taxi queue system will be activated to manage transportation, it said.
Major carriers have announced widespread cancellations:
Cathay Pacific said on Monday it expected to cancel more than 500 flights. The airline will halt all inbound and outbound passenger operations from Tuesday at 6pm, with a gradual resumption of services expected during the day on Thursday.
Hong Kong Airlines has canceled all flights scheduled between Tuesday 6pm and Thursday 6am. The airline has waived fees for rebooking or changing routes for affected passengers.
HK Express and Greater Bay Airlines said they will waive rebooking fees for affected passengers.
The airport authority emphasized that while the airport will remain open, the extensive reduction in flights is a proactive safety measure against the powerful typhoon, which is forecast to bring hurricane-force winds and significant storm surges reminiscent of 2017's Hato and 2018's Mangkhut.
Passengers are advised to stay updated through official airline channels and the Airport Authority's latest announcements.
