Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) recently accomplished its mission in handling all the horses that came to Hong Kong for the Equestrian Test Event held in Hong Kong. The Test Event "Good Luck Beijing - HKSAR 10th Anniversary Cup" was held from August 11 to 13, 2007, as a prelude to the 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Equestrian Events in Hong Kong next year.

Between July 28 and August 2, a total of 17 competition horses for the Test Event flew from Europe, Australia and the US by various airlines, including British Airways, KLM and Martinair. To ensure the smooth handling of the horses throughout the whole process, Hactl used its experienced operational teams comprising special cargo handling experts and security professionals to handle each flight.

Upon arrival, the horses were unloaded from the aircraft and transferred to Hactl's Livestock Handling Centre. For contingency, Hactl has specially allocated ample space adjacent to the Livestock Handling Centre for the installation of six temporary stables equipped with mist fans by the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) and the Equestrian Company. Horses were then transferred into the air-conditioned horse trucks arranged by HKJC and then headed off to the Hong Kong Olympic Equestrian Venue in Sha Tin for the Test Event.

After completion of the Test Event, the same meticulous arrangements were made before the horses departed Hong Kong. After going through all the stringent handling procedures at SuperTerminal 1, the horses boarded the carriers including British Airways, Cathay Pacific and KLM and made their way home in good shape.

Mr. Kenneth Bell, Director, Service Delivery of Hactl said, "It is Hactl's honour to have been able to play our part in the Test Event in preparation for the 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Equestrian Events in Hong Kong. Using Hactl's wealth of experience in handling special cargoes, we are gearing up for the efficient and secure horse handling process required for the 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Equestrian Events."