On May 22, Cathay Pacific Airways welcomed the latest initiatives made by the Hong Kong SAR Government to enhance air traffic management and to increase runway capacity at Hong Kong International Airport. The airline sees these essential interim measures as crucial to bolstering the competitiveness of Hong Kong as a leading global aviation hub, and looks forward to more long-term breakthrough developments in the near future through active coordination with Mainland China authorities.

The Financial Secretary, Mr Henry Tang, announced that the number of movements at the airport would, within two years, be increased to 58 slots per hour from the existing 54 slots. In addition, the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department (HKCAD) will adopt measures to expand runway capacity.

Cathay Pacific Chief Executive Philip Chen said: "We are very encouraged by the Government's latest initiatives. Since late last year, members of the aviation industry have been working very closely with the HKCAD and the Economic Development and Labour Bureau to resolve the airspace restriction issue that could be a major hindrance to the development of this important anchor industry. We are particularly grateful to the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, who has taken a personal interest in this issue and raised the industry's concerns at the highest levels of the Central Government."

"We are very pleased that the HKSAR Government and the HKCAD have taken heed of the concerns raised by the industry, and have addressed them positively. These interim measures represent the efforts of all concerned parties."

Looking ahead, Mr Chen highlighted the importance of continuous cooperation with the Mainland authorities for a long-term solution to airspace congestion in the Pearl River Delta, and looked forward to more breakthrough developments soon.

"More efficient management of airspace is important not only to the economic development and hub competitiveness of Hong Kong but, most importantly, would be beneficial to all parties in the Pearl River Delta region. It would also bring about environmental improvements as a result of more efficient flight paths and a reduction in fuel consumption. It is heartening to see that the Government and the industry are united in their efforts to address this issue positively," he added.