Financial Secretary Paul Chan today visited the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) and the construction site of its three-runway system (3RS) to learn about the progress of the Airport Authority's major projects.

Accompanied by the authority's Chairman Jack So and Chief Executive Officer Fred Lam, Mr Chan was first briefed on the progress of various projects under the Airport City strategy.

They include the 3RS, SKYCITY and AsiaWorld-Expo Phase 2, smart airport developments, as well as projects to strengthen connectivity within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and cargo developments.

The Airport City strategy was put forward by the authority to fully capitalise on the airport's unique geographical advantage, capture opportunities arising from new infrastructural developments in Hong Kong, and integrate and achieve greater synergy between the core functions of the airport and related industries, thereby strengthening HKIA's status as an international aviation hub and creating a new landmark for the city.

Mr Chan noted that HKIA has been the world's leading international passenger and cargo airport, adding that the authority is committed to its vision and plans for the airport's further development to enhance its capacity, functionality and synergy with bay area partners amid the challenges faced by the aviation industry during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The Airport City strategy will broaden HKIA's catchment and harness our competitiveness, consolidating Hong Kong's status as a preeminent international aviation hub," he said.

Mr Chan was also updated on the latest construction progress of the 3RS.

The third runway is expected to be commissioned in 2022 and the 3RS in 2024 to cater for long-term air traffic demand.

Once the 3RS is fully commissioned, the airport's annual passenger handling capacity will be around 100 million and its annual cargo handling capacity will be about nine million tonnes.

The finance chief said: "The pandemic has brought about a significant impact on the aviation industry around the world, but I am confident that the industry and air traffic will gradually recover after the pandemic.

"The 3RS will help maintain Hong Kong's overall competitiveness as an international aviation hub, create employment opportunities and benefit the well-being of our community, bringing long-term economic and social benefits to Hong Kong.”