AAPA welcomes approval for Hong Kong third runway

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia - The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) welcomed the Hong Kong Government’s approval for a third runway at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Andrew Herdman, AAPA Director General, said, “We very much welcome the decision by the Hong Kong Government to approve the construction of a third runway at Hong Kong International Airport. This will bring much needed additional capacity to meet the projected growth in demand for air travel. It will position HKIA to maintain its long term competitive edge, and support the continued successful development of Hong Kong, both as a major tourism hub and a leading international centre for business and professional services, trading and transport logistics.”

Mr. Herdman added, “We are however concerned about the proposed approach to finance the project, including an element of pre-funding the construction of the third runway through the imposition of significantly higher levies on passengers, even before the new runway comes into service. There is a risk that Hong Kong could damage its own competitive position, particularly in relation to rival aviation hubs within the region. We would therefore urge the Hong Kong authorities to think carefully about the potential adverse effects of such an approach, particularly when there are alternative forms of funding available to support the necessary capital investment.”

sourced:traveldailynewsa.asia