Editorial | Hong Kong airport’s second terminal will help the city reach new heights

The second terminal was designed to be “vibrant, youthful and technologically forward-thinking”, according to Airport Authority chairman Fred Lam Tin-fuk. While most long-haul traffic will continue through Terminal 1, the new addition will be a base for 15 airlines, including Hong Kong Airlines and HK Express. Residents and visitors can expect a more streamlined experience, with smart check-in kiosks and self-service baggage drops.

The new facilities are arriving just in time. Last year passenger trips hit 61 million, up 15 per cent from 2024. Cargo throughput exceeded 5 million tonnes, a figure Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said puts Hong Kong in the running for the world’s busiest cargo airport for the 15th time.

It also puts Hong Kong on course to align with the central government’s 15th five-year plan by leveraging Hong Kong’s unique strengths to serve the Greater Bay Area. Chan said enhancing the aviation network helps ensure the airport “remains the heart of global transport and logistics” for the cluster of southern Chinese cities. The airport has access to 220 destinations served by 140 airlines and deals are being explored with 10 new civil aviation partners this year.

The 11 Skies retail and entertainment complex in Terminal 2 will make the airport itself a vibrant destination beyond its role as an air transit point. Completion of the expansion reinforces Hong Kong’s role as the premier gateway between mainland China and the world.

The city should take pride in knowing the sky is the limit as its airport takes a major stride in growth, convenience and global influence.