Hong Kong’s air traffic nears pre-pandemic levels, says transport chief

Hong Kong’s transport chief said the Hong Kong International Airport’s capacity is fully restored to normal, as it handles 1,150 flight movements on Saturday, nearing the pre-pandemic average of 1,200 per day.

Writing on her blog, Secretary for Transport Mable Chan Mei-bo said the three-runway system was put into operation last month, perfectly timed for the peak of Christmas flights. 

The Civil Aviation Department expects the passenger volume during this Christmas to reach pre-pandemic levels, with approximately 200,000 passengers expected on a single day. This weekend is anticipated to be a peak period for citizens departing for overseas trips.

Chan, meanwhile, said various exciting events are scheduled across Hong Kong in December, including the New Year's countdown fireworks display.

It is expected that there will be a significant increase in visitors on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, she said, adding that special traffic arrangements will be in place.

The Transport Department will take into account border opening times and enhance transportation services connecting various checkpoints, said Chan.