Cargo handlers accepted defective equipment due to the time pressures of the airport opening, it was revealed yesterday.
Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (HACTL) said it had no option but to go with the Government-appointed opening date, and had to accept faulty machinery which was not properly installed.
Company project manager for controls Ho Yiu-wing told the Commission of Inquiry on the new airport it issued certificates of acceptance to cargo handling system contractors despite being unhappy with the equipment.
Mr Ho said although the move led to difficulties and delays in live site testing in the run-up to opening day, it was necessary to ensure the deadline was met.
'Due to the pressure of time and the fast approaching airport opening day set by the Government, HACTL had no alternative but to issue its contractors with acceptance certificates in less-than-satisfactory circumstances,' Mr Ho said.
Along with the certificates HACTL also issued lists outlining the defects which needed urgent attention before opening day.