World's longest sky bridge opens

The Hong Kong International Airport Sky Bridge - the longest of its kind in the world - opened yesterday, allowing travelers to walk between terminal 1 and the satellite concourse instead of having to take a shuttle bus.

The airside bridge - 200 meters long and 28m high and which cost nearly HK$1 billion - is equipped with escalators and an automated walkway. It allows for the largest passenger aircraft, the Airbus A380, to pass underneath it and gives travelers a spectacular view of the apron.

Airport Authority executive director of engineering and technology Ricky Leung Wing-kee said the bridge was originally scheduled to commence service in mid-2020, but was delayed due to Covid.

Parts of the bridge were preassembled in the mainland, he said, adding it was not put into use until yesterday since there were fewer travelers during the height of the pandemic.

The delays have led to additional charges, but he did not detail the final cost of the project.

In the past, passengers had to take a shuttle bus from terminal 1 to the satellite concourse. It usually took around 10 minutes, but trips were more inconvenient and sometimes hampered by flights. With the bridge, it only takes passengers eight minutes to walk between the satellite concourse to an area near gate 24 of terminal 1.

Leung said passengers in the future can also better plan for their trips as they no longer risk missing their flight due to shuttle bus delays.

He added that travelers will find the new bridge useful and more people will choose to walk through it to reach their flights.

The satellite concourse has nine boarding gates and is mainly for domestic flights, such as those operated by Hong Kong Express Airways.

A traveler surnamed Lee, who walked through the bridge to her flight to Japan yesterday, praised its convenience.

"Travelers have better control over their time," she said, adding the shuttle buses were very crowded in the past.

Another passenger flying to Taiwan also said it was easier for her to use the bridge instead of the shuttle bus.

"It's amazing to see planes go under your feet," she added.

The Airport Authority said: "With the exterior glazing and glass floor installed on the bridge, passengers can enjoy the extraordinary experience of an aircraft passing beneath their feet."

Leung said the bridge is expected to become an iconic feature at the airport.

"It offers passengers a spectacular view of the entire airport with the nearby landscape as the backdrop. Passengers have a brand new spot for snapshots before they go on with their journey," he said.

"The HKIA Sky Bridge is a part of our efforts in renewing and enhancing passenger experiences at the airport. Together with other upgraded airport facilities, we look forward to welcoming passengers from around the world."

Restaurants and shops on the bridge are expected to open early next year.

wallis.wang@singtaonewscorp.com