New Three-runway System at Hong Kong International Airport launched

The Three-runway System (3RS) at the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) was officially launched on November 28, marking a new milestone in Hong Kong’s aviation development. With a target to serve 120 million passengers and 10 million tons of cargo annually in a decade, 3RS is expected to expand HKIA's capacity to strengthen further Hong Kong’s position as a major international aviation hub.

At the commissioning ceremony, Chief Executive John Lee emphasized that HKIA is a vital gateway to the world for Hong Kong and the entire Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, playing a strategic role in social and economic development. With 3RS now in operation, it can carry passengers from around Mainland China and cargo to more destinations, as well as provide more options for global passenger and cargo flow into the Mainland.

Construction works of 3RS started in August 2016. The new North Runway was officially commissioned in November 2022. Since then, HKIA has continued to operate with two runways, with the Centre Runway temporarily closed temporarily for reconfiguration. With the completion of the reconfiguration works, the flight check and aircraft crash and rescue exercise were completed on the Centre Runway. After all three runways start operating simultaneously, the number of aircraft take-offs and landings at HKIA will gradually increase to tie in with air traffic demand.

Before the launch of 3RS, a unique event titled The Hong Kong International Airport · Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon: Three-Runway System 10km International Race was held on November 17. It was the only long-distance running event prior to the full operation of the 3RS, providing runners with the memorable experience of running on a runway with aircraft taking off and landing nearby. In addition to the 10km main race, the “M” Mark sports event also presented an opportunity for people with different physical abilities to take part in 5km, 3km and Wheelchair Races.