Aviation enthusiasts took a peek into the future last weekend. Airbus's giant new A380 aircraft emerged from Hong Kong's polluted skies to make its first landing at Chek Lap Kok.
The aircraft - the third unit to roll off the production line in Toulouse, France - flew to Hong Kong on a rigorous flight-testing routine.
Five of the planes will circle the world three times in 18 days before the A380 is certified for commercial use next month.
Top airline executives rubbed shoulders with die-hard planespotters as an excited crowd fought to get a first look at the 555-seat aircraft.
'We have been waiting for this aircraft for many years. It will enhance our hub position,' said David Pang Ding-jung, chief executive of the Hong Kong Airport Authority.
'It will help us to bring the 1.3 billion Chinese living on the mainland to the world. And it will help us bring the world to China.'
