Cathay Pacific throws weight behind third HK runway
Hong Kong carrier Cathay Pacific has thrown its weight behind a campaign to ensure Hong Kong gets a third runway.
The airline says it is vital if the airport and destination itself remains competitive for tourism and trade.
“There is an urgent need to move ahead with the third runway project as the airport is fast approaching its maximum runway capacity. It is certain that the airport will reach capacity well before a third runway could be built, which is of great concern when we are seeing increasing competition from other rapidly expanding hubs in the region,” said Cathay’s chief executive Ivan Chu.
“Hong Kong International Airport is extremely successful. It is the world’s busiest airport for international freight and the third busiest in terms of international passenger traffic.”
“The Airport Authority is fully capable of financing the construction of the third runway through its own means without the need to impose additional financial burden on users. Charges must remain competitive to ensure continued growth for aviation, tourism and related industries,” Chu added.
IATA chief Tony Tyler has urged airport authorities not to dramatically hike airport fees to pay for the proposed US$$19.3 billion project, and instead raise capital from a bond issue or seek loans.
“Airlines and passengers using the airport today would be paying for those who use it tomorrow. This is not only wrong in principle. It would be unfair,” said Tyler, who also served as CEO at Cathay Pacific until 2011.
The new runway project could begin construction next year and would open by 2023.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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