The construction of a HK$136 billion third runway at Chek Lap Kok is poised to hit the pockets of travellers, as the Airport Authority says it will not rule out a levy on airport users to finance the project.
That prospect was raised yesterday by the Executive Council's in-principle endorsement of the government's plan to build a third runway, amid fierce opposition from green groups.
Cathay Pacific, the city's flagship carrier, has said such a fee may be reflected in air fares.
The authority yesterday said a surcharge was among the various financing options under consideration, including direct capital injection by the government and bond issues.
'We will not rule this out, as we will study all [financing] options,' said Stanley Hui Hon-chung, the authority's chief executive.
The HK$136 billion project - the largest single development in the city's history in monetary terms - will soon be assessed for its environmental impact, while design work and financing studies will also be done.