Hong Kong International Airport announces passenger volume rose by 4.8% in March 2016 compared to same month last year

HONG KONG, 2016-Apr-19 — /Travel PR News/ — Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) saw steady growth in air traffic figures in March 2016. During the month, passenger volume rose by 4.8% to 6 million, while flight movements increased by 2.2% to 35,060, compared to the same month last year. Cargo throughput experienced mild growth of 1.1% year-on-year to 368,000 tonnes.

The growth in March passenger traffic was largely driven by Hong Kong resident travel, which registered 19% year-on-year growth over the same month last year. Passenger traffic to and from Southeast Asia and North Asia recorded the most significant increases.

The growth in cargo throughput last month was primarily due to 5% growth in exports and 3% growth in transshipments. Amongst the key trading regions, traffic to / from India and Australasia increased most significantly during the month.

C K Ng, Executive Director, Airport Operations of Airport Authority Hong Kong, said, “In March, HKIA was delighted to welcome the arrival of the first A350 aircraft, operated by Finnair between Hong Kong and Helsinki. This new generation aircraft is quieter, more energy efficient and environmental friendly.”

HKIA has recently introduced a new Self Bag Drop service, which several local carriers – including Cathay Pacific, Cathay Dragon and Hong Kong Airlines – have adapted for selected routes.

“HKIA strives to develop into a smart airport, leveraging advanced technologies to continuously enhance operational efficiency and passenger experience. The new service enables passengers to cut processing time by half as compared to queuing at traditional check-in counters,” added Mr Ng.

In the first quarter of 2016, HKIA has welcomed 17.6 million passengers, and witnessed 102,880 flight movements, marking year-on-year increases of 7.5% and 4%, respectively. Cargo throughput declined 3.5% from the same period in 2015 to 987,000 tonnes.

On a rolling 12-month basis, HKIA has handled 69.7 million passengers and 410,020 flight movements, recording year-on-year increases of 7.8% and 3.5% respectively, while cargo throughput dropped by 1.4% to 4.34 million tonnes.