New terminal planned for Hong Kong

Cathay Pacific has set a 2011 deadline for its new cargo terminal at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). A recent groundbreaking ceremony marked a milestone for the airline which will invest HK$4.8 billion (R5.8bn) in the facility that will occupy a site of around 10 hectares in the airport’s cargo area. Due for completion in the second half of 2011 it has a designed annual air cargo throughput capacity of 2.6 million tonnes. It’s all part of entrenching Hong Kong as the preferred hub facility. Industry commentators point out that the city is facing increasing competition from other fast-growing airports in Asia as well as from within the Pearl River Delta region itself. Understanding that the aviation industry is facing challenges arising from surging aviation fuel prices and a slowdown in the global economy, Hong Kong's secretary for transport and housing Eva Cheng stressed: “It is important that we maintain the momentum of our infrastructure investment so we are fully prepared when conditions revive to achieve better growth in the longer term. In the coming few years, several other projects will change the face of this part of Lantau Island. These projects will effectively enhance the competitiveness of the airport.”