Exclusive | Hong Kong Airlines: government considers contingency plan for possible Lunar New Year shutdown
- Tens of thousands of travellers could be stranded if city’s third largest carrier ceased operations during peak season
- Carrier says it has not been informed by the government or involved in any contingency planning
The Hong Kong government is assessing the potential fallout from the possible collapse of the city’s third largest airline during the coming Lunar New Year peak travel period, with authorities considering a contingency plan, according to two sources with knowledge of the review.
The Transport and Housing Bureau (THB) and the Security Bureau were asked to comment on risk assessment measures involving Hong Kong Airlines, which could include coordinating special flight arrangements with other carriers in case of a sudden shutdown.
“The impact would be enormous as tens of thousands of travellers might be stuck abroad if the carrier suddenly shuts down in the travel peak season,” one source said. “Regardless of the chances, authorities should be prepared.”
Without confirming or denying the plan, a THB spokeswoman said it noted the airline had already issued a statement at the weekend, and the government had “nothing to supplement”. The Security Bureau referred inquiries to the THB for comment.
However, in a strongly worded statement on Wednesday evening, the carrier said it had not been informed by the government or involved in any contingency planning.