Hong Kong International Airport, also known as Chek Lap Kok Airport, is the main airport serving Hong Kong and one of the busiest cargo and passenger airports in the world. The airport opened in 1998, replacing the legendary Kai Tak Airport, which was famous for its dramatic curved approach over the densely built-up Kowloon City. Built on a reclaimed island off the northern coast of Lantau Island, the main terminal was designed by Foster + Partners, and the entire project cost over $20 billion, making it one of the most expensive infrastructure projects in history at the time. Hong Kong International handles over 40 million passengers annually across two terminals. The Midfield Concourse, completed in 2015, provides additional gate capacity for wide-body aircraft. The airport serves as the hub for Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Airlines, and HK Express, and hosts virtually every major international carrier. A third runway system was completed in 2024, significantly expanding the airport's capacity. The Airport Express MTR train connects to Hong Kong Station in Central in just 24 minutes, making it one of the fastest airport rail links in the world, with free in-town check-in available at Hong Kong and Kowloon stations. The SkyPier ferry terminal allows passengers to transfer directly to destinations in the Pearl River Delta without clearing Hong Kong immigration. Hong Kong International has been the world's busiest cargo airport for many years, handling over 4.3 million tonnes of freight annually. Its tax-free status and central position in Asia make it an essential stopover for long-haul travelers.

Aviation Terms

Airfield Lighting (AGL) Airport Category Airport Elevation (ELEV) Airport Fire Station (ARFF) Airport Lounge Airport Reference Point (ARP) Apron Automated Passport Control (APC)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get from Hong Kong Airport to the city center?

The Airport Express is the fastest option, reaching Hong Kong Station in Central in just 24 minutes. A single ride costs HKD 115 (round trip HKD 205). Free shuttle buses run from Hong Kong and Kowloon stations to major hotels. Alternatively, Citybus routes A11 and A21 reach the city in 60-75 minutes for HKD 40.

How many terminals does Hong Kong Airport have?

Hong Kong International Airport has two terminals. Terminal 1 is the main terminal handling most airlines and all departure gates. Terminal 2 primarily serves as a check-in and arrivals facility. The Sky Bridge connects to the new third-runway concourse, which expanded the airport capacity starting in 2024.

Which airlines have a hub at Hong Kong Airport?

Cathay Pacific Airways (Oneworld) operates its global hub from HKIA with over 200 destinations. Its subsidiary HK Express serves as a low-cost carrier. Greater Bay Airlines also uses HKIA as its base. Hong Kong remains one of the busiest cargo airports in the world.

Can I take a ferry from Hong Kong Airport?

Yes, SkyPier at the airport offers direct ferry services to several cities in the Pearl River Delta, including Shenzhen (Shekou and Fuyong), Macau, Zhuhai, and Dongguan. Transit passengers can proceed directly to the ferry without clearing Hong Kong immigration, making it a convenient option for connections to mainland China.

Does Hong Kong Airport have sleeping facilities?

Yes, Plaza Premium offers sleep lounges with private rooms bookable by the hour in both the departures and arrivals areas. The Regal Airport Hotel is directly connected to Terminal 1 for longer stays. Free reclining seats are available throughout the terminal for passengers on overnight layovers.