Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 2 opens May 27, targets 30m passengers

Hong Kong International Airport's expanded Terminal 2 (T2) will officially commence passenger departure operations on May 27, following a slight delay from the original March target. 

The Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) board member and lawmaker Rock Chen Chung-nin explained that they had decided to postpone the launch to complete comprehensive testing, including baggage systems, ensuring smooth and reliable service for travelers.

Around 15 airlines focusing on short-haul and regional routes, including low-cost carriers, will gradually move into T2. 

Airlines such as HK Express and Hong Kong Airlines are expected to be among the first. T2 will primarily serve younger, tech-savvy passengers with advanced self-service check-in and baggage drop facilities, offering greater flexibility and efficiency.

The new terminal aims to relieve pressure on Terminal 1 by diverting regional traffic, freeing up space there for more long-haul and premium flights. 

This split is expected to reduce wait times at immigration and security checkpoints.

Last year, the airport handled 61 million passengers, up 15 percent year-on-year. 

With T2's opening, officials anticipate about 15 million passengers using the facility by year-end, with a medium-term goal of reaching 30 million annually. 

The airport targets 70 million total passengers this year, and T2 could eventually handle 20-30 million, significantly enhancing overall capacity.

If operations prove successful, further expansions could push T2 beyond 30 million passengers.