Cathay Pacific freighter completes first comercial flight on new Hong Kong runway

A Cathay Pacific freighter has completed the first commercial flight to land at Hong Kong International Airport’s (HKIA) new third runway.

The landing of flight CX3251 from Shanghai Pudong operated by a Boeing 747-400F freighter at 08:27am on July 8 was conducted as part of the operation familiarisation on the Third Runway.

This allows stakeholders from the aviation community to become familiar with the related operating procedures and collaborative arrangements.

Cathay Pacific chief executive Augustus Tang said: “We are delighted to be the first airline to operate a commercial flight using the new third runway, and for that flight to be operated by the ‘Queen of the Skies’, one of our 747 freighters.

“The commencement of the Third Runway is a milestone achievement for the Hong Kong international aviation hub that will greatly enhance its capacity and capability for handling passenger and cargo flights.

“As an aviation hub, Hong Kong has a critical role to play in the country’s development, as outlined in the 14th Five-Year Plan.

“The growth potential afforded by the commencement of the Three-Runway System (3RS) at HKIA, together with the opportunities presented by the Greater Bay Area, will ensure that Cathay Pacific and our home hub will remain competitive for many years to come.”

In addition to the Third Runway, the 3RS project comprises the expansion of Terminal 2 (T2), development of a new T2 Concourse, Automatic People Mover and Baggage Handling System, and is targeted to complete in 2024 as scheduled.

Damian Brett www.aircargonews.net