Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), also known as Chek Lap Kok Airport, is one of the busiest and most modern airports in the world. Opened in 1998, it replaced the legendary Kai Tak Airport and has since become a major hub for Asia-Pacific aviation. With the recent addition of its third runway, the airport offers even more opportunities for aviation enthusiasts to witness diverse aircraft operations and iconic airlines.
A Brief History of Chek Lap Kok![]()
Chek Lap Kok was constructed on reclaimed land, transforming a small island into an aviation powerhouse. The airport was designed to meet the growing demand for air travel, following the limitations of the former Kai Tak Airport, famed for its challenging approach through Hong Kong’s urban landscape.
From its opening in 1998, Chek Lap Kok has consistently been ranked among the top global airports for efficiency, cargo handling, and passenger experience. The new third runway, part of the airport’s Three-Runway System (3RS) project, officially opened in 2022 and enhances its capacity to handle over 100 million passengers annually by 2030.
Airport Layout and Operations![]()
The airport is a vast facility with two main passenger terminals:
- Terminal 1: One of the largest terminals in the world, handling most international and regional flights.
- Terminal 2: Currently undergoing renovations as part of the 3RS project to enhance passenger services.
The airport also features:
- Three Runways: Runways 07L/25R, 07R/25L, and the newly added 07C/25C (the third runway). The new third runway supports the airport’s growing traffic, particularly from major international carriers.
- Freight Handling: HKG is the world’s busiest cargo airport, with extensive freight operations.
Chek Lap Kok is a major hub for Cathay Pacific, HK Express, and Air Hong Kong, among other regional and international airlines.
Main Airline Operators
Photo (c) Erik Ritterbach
Photo (c) Henry Chow 0516
Chek Lap Kok hosts flights from airlines across the globe, making it a hotspot for plane spotting. Key operators include:
- Cathay Pacific: Operating one of the world’s most advanced fleets, including the Airbus A350 and Boeing 777.
- HK Express: A low-cost carrier focused on regional destinations in Asia.
- Foreign Airlines: Emirates, British Airways, Singapore Airlines, Qantas, and ANA are frequent visitors with wide-body aircraft like the Airbus A380 and Boeing 787.
- Cargo Airlines: UPS, FedEx, DHL, and Cathay Pacific Cargo make the airport a critical hub for global logistics.
Top Plane Spotting Locations![]()
Photo (c) Erik Ritterbach
Hong Kong’s Chek Lap Kok offers several excellent spots for observing its diverse aircraft traffic.
- SkyBridge
- Overview: A dedicated observation area and café inside the new bridge linking Terminal 1 with remote concourses. Offering panoramic views of the terminal area.
- Tips: Only available for passengers, so head airside early to enjoy the spotting!
- Sha Lo Wan Village
- Overview: Located on Lantau Island, this village provides views of aircraft on approach to Runway 25L or 25C.
- Tips: Accessible by hiking or ferry; lighting is best in the morning.
- Airport North Perimeter Road
- Overview: Offers close-up views of departing and arriving aircraft, particularly near Runway 07C.
- Tips: Be mindful of local traffic and avoid restricted zones.
- Tung Chung Waterfront Road
- Overview: This spot provides a clear line of sight for aircraft approaching 07L and 07C.
- Tips: Bring a zoom lens to capture the action from a distance.
- Ngong Ping Cable Car
- Overview: A unique spotting experience from above, offering views of the airport and its surroundings.
- Tips: Great for casual spotting rather than detailed photography.
Tips for Plane Spotters at Chek Lap Kok
Photo (c) Christian Junker | Photography
- Diverse Aircraft: HKG sees everything from A380s and 747 freighters to narrow-body jets, making it ideal for enthusiasts looking for variety.
- Best Times to Spot: Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best lighting, especially for photography.
- Equipment: A good zoom lens (300-500mm) is recommended for capturing detailed shots from public locations.
- Local Regulations: Respect airport property and local laws. Avoid trespassing and stick to public areas designated for spotting.
Title image: █ Slices of Light 
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