night slot trial

Aerial view of HKIA. Credit: © Airport Authority Hong Kong.

Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has extended the night slot trial for business and general aviation at the airport beyond its original October deadline.

The Asian Business Aviation Association (AsBAA) has lobbied the Hong Kong Schedule Coordination Office for extending access to the airport.

The Hong Kong Airport Authority has increased the number of slots available between 16.00 and 20.59 UTC (Universal Time Coordinated).

The full night period, 14.00-22.59 UTC, now has nine slots for general and business aviation. The trial period, which was initially slated to end on 7 October has now been extended until 31 March.

“Prior to the start of the trial, just four slots were made available during the night time on the condition that only quieter new-generation aircraft will land at the airport.”

AsBAA Hong Kong Chapter lead and vice-chairman Phil Balmer said: “We have continually pushed the message of securing the industry’s ‘fair share’ of slots at HKIA. Business aviation (BA) / general aviation (GA) creates jobs, boosts the local economy and brings prosperity to Hong Kong.

“When the industry is permitted to thrive, everyone benefits. We are ecstatic and proud that the association’s continuous lobbying efforts have assisted in the increase of slots available to our members at HKIA.”

Prior to the start of the night slot trial, just four slots were made available during the night time on the condition that only quieter new-generation aircraft such as the Gulfstream G500 and the Bombardier Global 5000 will land at the airport. However, the additional slots can be used by all kinds of aircraft.

Hong Kong International Airport is one of the busiest in the world serving 72.9 million passengers per annum and connecting more than 200 destinations worldwide.