Hong Kong International Airport Welcomes China’s Homegrown C919 on Historic Flight: You Need to Know

On January 1, 2025, Hong Kong celebrated the arrival of the first C919 passenger jet, developed and manufactured in China, marking its first scheduled commercial journey beyond Mainland China.

China Eastern Airlines is flying the C919 on a daily route between Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport and Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). This event signifies a significant achievement for the domestic aircraft, meeting global aviation standards and heralding a new chapter for Hong Kong as a major international air transport hub.

The third runway system (3RS) at HKIA, launched on November 28, 2024, has initiated a transformative period for Hong Kong’s aviation sector, enhancing its capacity to drive economic growth.

With the operational 3RS, HKIA, which holds the title of the busiest airport for air freight globally, is set to boost its capacity substantially. By 2035, the airport plans to handle approximately 120 million passengers and 10 million tonnes of cargo annually.

HKIA is transitioning into an expansive Airport City. New developments include fostering an arts industry ecosystem, expanding AsiaWorld-Expo, constructing a yacht bay with supportive amenities, and introducing a market for imported fresh food. These initiatives aim to more than double the current scope of Airport City, establishing a new global landmark.