AsBAA breakthrough on slots at Hong Kong International Airport

AsBAA, Asia’s non-profit representative body for the business and general aviation industry (BA/GA) has announced a breakthrough in securing additional slots at HKIA. Further to on-going lobbying efforts since 2016, the Hong Kong Airport Authority has increased the number of slots available between 1600-2059 UTC daily from 4-to-6. The full night period, 1400-2259 UTC, now has 9 dedicated slots for GA/BA. In addition, the trial period, which was originally scheduled to end on 7 October 2018 has now been extended until 31 March 2019.

AsBAA’s Hong Kong Chapter lead and Vice Chairman, Phil Balmer said “We have continually pushed the message of securing the industry’s “fair share” of slots at HKIA. BA/GA creates jobs, boosts the local economy and brings prosperity to Hong Kong. When the industry is permitted to thrive, everyone benefits. We are ecstatic and proud that the association’s continuous lobbying efforts have assisted in the increase of slots available to our members at HKIA”.

Balmer continued, “We are a team of volunteers, however, with the support of the industry we have evidenced the steps forward that can be taken when working together. We raise issues with various regional authorities and we work collectively towards positive solutions for the entire aviation industry. Today’s announcement is evidence of the result of such collaborative work. We thank our members for their support”.

AsBAA first formed a slot co-ordination quarterly meeting with the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department and Hong Kong Airport Authority in 2016. With Advocacy as one of the association’s three key pillars, its mission is to represent its members and industry stakeholders with “one-voice” to engage the regulators and Airport Authorities.

AsBAA continues to support the industry in Greater China and Southeast Asia. The association encourages its members to attend the committee and country chapter meetings that take place across the region. At the AsBAA Regional Chapter meetings which take place regularly in multiple locations, members can share feedback and obtain support for localised issues. There is never any charge to attend an AsBAA Chapter Meeting.