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Hong KongHong Kong Economy

Hong Kong crackdown on business jets could force operators to use mainland airports

Some industry insiders warn that inflexibilities in the system may force operators to base their jets overseas, including in mainland China

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The government is seeking to crack down on abuse of the system allowing private business jets to use Hong Kong’s airport. Photo: Dickson Lee
Danny Lee

Aviation authorities have moved to crack down on business jets misusing take-off and landing slots by tightening access for operators flying in and out of Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).

But some industry insiders warn that inflexibilities in the system may force operators to fly more to other airports, including in mainland China.

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In the latest effort to stop slots going unused or being hoarded or traded illegally, aircraft must have a runway slot booked in combination with a parking space and airport ground handling. If either one is not confirmed, a flight booking will be rejected, potentially wasting an unused slot.
Stiffer regulations were implemented after Transport and Housing Secretary Professor Anthony Cheung Bing-leung pledged to lawmakers over the summer to tackle the abuse of slots while supporting the business aviation industry, which he acknowledged had a “positive” impact on the city.
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The move by the authorities is aimed at highlighting “genuine demand” for business jet flights, according to the Civil Aviation Department. But it has split the industry, with some raising concern that the misuse and abuse of runway slot rules were having a real impact on business.

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