Cargo hub: Cargo throughput at Hong Kong International Airport soared to 3.4 million in 2005, up 9.9% on the previous year.

Annual passenger throughput at Hong Kong International Airport hit a record high of 40.74 million last year, up 9.7% on 2004, while cargo throughput soared to 3.4 million and aircraft movements exceeded 263,400, up 9.9% and 11%.

The Airport Authority said today air cargo export and transshipment grew 10% and 24%, showing a continuous and robust demand for intra-regional trade and trade between Asia and the US and Europe.

Growth of cargo flights outpaced passenger flights with an increment of 20% and 10% over 2004, showing the rising importance of cargo growth.

In December, passenger throughput was 3.58 million, up 7% on the previous year. Cargo throughput and aircraft movements reached 309,000 tonnes and 23,500, surging 10.6% and 12.8%.

Business breakthroughs

The authority's Commercial Director Hans Bakker said impressive figures aside, the airport made a number of breakthroughs in business in 2005.

"Besides the launch of the world's first cross-boundary check-in service in the fast growing Pearl River Delta, 10 new carriers joined our extensive air network to provide scheduled services," Mr Bakker said.

He added the opening of AsiaWorld-Expo - the largest exhibition and event complex - in December shows Hong Kong International Airport is more than an airport.