Hong Kong Airport Enhances Passenger Facilities for Adverse Weather Events

In response to last September's Typhoon Koinu, which left hundreds of passengers stranded, Hong Kong Airport is introducing new rest areas with amenities and a ticketing system for taxis during bad weather events.

The new measures aim to provide passengers with a comfortable waiting area during extreme weather conditions and to manage the demand for taxis more efficiently. The rest areas will be equipped with amenities such as snacks, water, and phone-charging services. Over 500 chairs will be available in the departure hall, each supplied with a kit containing crackers, water, and a blanket. Locker cabinets with phone-recharging services will also be accessible.

Why this matters: The introduction of new rest areas and a ticketing system for taxis at Hong Kong airport during bad weather events has significant implications for the safety and comfort of passengers. This move could set a precedent for other airports to follow, leading to improved travel experiences during extreme weather conditions.

The ticketing system for taxis will be activated when the No 8 typhoon signal or black rainstorm warning is issued. Passengers will be informed about the need to get a ticket before approaching the taxi rank through signs at the baggage reclaim area and announcements before their plane lands. Tickets can be obtained at kiosks in the arrivals hall or by downloading the Gulu queuing and reservation smartphone app.

Steven Yiu Siu-chung, the authority's executive director of airport operations, stated, "There is a chance that the taxi queuing system will be activated when the No 8 typhoon signal or the black rainstorm warning is issued." This system is designed to prevent passengers from queuing for extended periods and to ensure a smoother transportation process.

The Airport Authority has also announced a year-long project to upgrade the airport's driverless people mover system, which runs in two segments within Terminal One and the Midfield Concourse. The mover system will stop service two hours earlier at 11pm starting this July.

Typhoon Koinu, which hit Hong Kong in September 2022, prompted the Airport Express to suspend services into the city center, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded at the airport. The Airport Authority and Civil Aviation Department had pledged to optimize the flight reallocation mechanism during typhoons to handle the flow of people stranded at the airport more effectively.

These new measures are part of the airport's efforts to enhance its resilience and preparedness for extreme weather conditions, ensuring a better experience for passengers during such events.

Key Takeaways

• Hong Kong Airport introduces rest areas with amenities during bad weather.
• Ticketing system for taxis to manage demand during extreme weather.
• Rest areas equipped with snacks, water, phone-charging, and blankets.
• Ticketing system activated during No 8 typhoon signal or black rainstorm warning.
• Airport Authority aims to enhance resilience and preparedness for extreme weather.