In a promising sign of recovery for Hong Kong’s aviation sector, the city’s international airport saw a remarkable surge in passenger traffic in November, with almost 3.8 million travelers passing through its terminals. This figure represents a substantial 2.6 times increase compared to the same period last year, marking a significant milestone in the airport’s journey towards pre-pandemic levels of activity.
The latest statistics published by the Airport Authority Hong Kong revealed that in November 2023, Hong Kong International Airport welcomed approximately 3,765,000 passengers, a stark contrast to the 1,048,000 passengers recorded in November 2022. This surge in passenger numbers comes as the city gradually eased its Covid-19 travel restrictions, which previously mandated a three-day “medical surveillance period” for arrivals, during which they were restricted from entering various establishments such as restaurants, bars, and gyms.
According to the Airport Authority’s statement, all passenger segments experienced robust growth compared to November 2022, indicating a steady recovery in passenger traffic. Notably, the statement highlighted that passenger traffic to and from Southeast Asia, mainland China, and Japan recorded the most significant increases, underlining the region’s growing connectivity and economic activity.
Steven Yiu, the executive director of the Airport Authority, expressed optimism about the airport’s recovery, stating that airport traffic had rebounded to about 80% compared to pre-Covid levels. This resurgence in passenger numbers is a positive development for Hong Kong’s tourism industry, which has faced significant challenges due to stringent Covid-19 regulations over the past three years.
The city’s tourism sector, once hampered by quarantine requirements and frequent testing, has shown signs of revival following the relaxation of travel-related Covid rules in December 2022 and the lifting of the mandatory mask rule in March. To further boost tourism, Hong Kong has launched initiatives such as the Hello Hong Kong campaign, which included free flight giveaways to attract visitors.
As Hong Kong continues to navigate its path towards a post-pandemic era, the surge in November passenger traffic at Hong Kong International Airport serves as a promising indication of the city’s resilience and its ability to rebound from adversity. With ongoing efforts to promote tourism and ensure the safety of travelers, Hong Kong is poised to reclaim its position as a vibrant and sought-after destination in the region.
(Source: Hillary Leung | Hong Kong Free Press)
