On January 1, 2025, Hong Kong marked a historic milestone as China’s first domestically developed and built C919 passenger jet made its inaugural scheduled commercial flight outside Mainland China. Operated by China Eastern Airlines, the C919 now operates daily round-trip routes between Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, cementing its place in global aviation and highlighting Hong Kong’s role as a world-class aviation hub.
A Symbol of Aviation Innovation
The C919, built to international airworthiness standards, signifies Mainland China’s achievement in advancing civil aviation technology. Mable Chan, Secretary for Transport and Logistics, emphasized that this breakthrough not only showcases Mainland China’s innovation but also demonstrates Hong Kong’s strategic role in promoting and supporting these advancements on a global stage under the “one country, two systems” framework.
Hong Kong’s Unique Strengths in Aviation
1. Aircraft Maintenance:
HKIA’s extensive facilities and expertise position it as a key hub for maintaining China-made aircraft outside the Mainland, ensuring seamless operations for the C919 and other future aircraft.
2. Training Excellence:
The Hong Kong International Aviation Academy, a leading training center in Asia, plans to expand its programs to include C919-related training, contributing to the development of skilled professionals in the aviation sector.
3. Aircraft Leasing Hub:
Leveraging its preferential tax regime, robust legal and financial systems, and status as the largest offshore renminbi business center, Hong Kong is poised to play a pivotal role in financing and leasing China-made aircraft to the international market.
Transforming Hong Kong’s Aviation Landscape
The launch of the three-runway system (3RS) at HKIA on November 28, 2024, has further strengthened Hong Kong’s position as a global aviation hub. The 3RS will boost passenger handling capacity to 120 million annually and cargo handling to 10 million tonnes by 2035, solidifying HKIA’s title as the world’s busiest air cargo hub.
Airport City Vision
Beyond aviation, HKIA is evolving into an Airport City, with projects such as:
- AsiaWorld-Expo Phase 2 expansion
- Development of a yacht bay with supporting facilities
- Creation of an arts ecosystem
- Opening a fresh food market for imported goods
These initiatives aim to double the scale of the Airport City, making it a global landmark and a driving force in regional economic growth.
Connecting the Nation and the World
With half of the world’s population within a five-hour flight, HKIA continues to bridge Mainland China with international markets. The debut of the C919 exemplifies the potential for collaborative innovation, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as a gateway for technological, economic, and cultural exchange.
Hong Kong’s aviation future shines brightly, fueled by cutting-edge infrastructure, strategic initiatives, and its unwavering commitment to connecting the world.
