On the rise: Boosted by the upbeat economy in the region, the Hong Kong International Airport saw a 9% rise in passenger throughput in November.

Hong Kong International Airport saw a 9% rise in passenger throughput in November from a year earlier, to 3.67 million, the Airport Authority says.

Boosted by the upbeat economy in the region, the growth was mainly due to the increase in visitor traffic, especially those from the Chinese Mainland and Southeast Asia.

During the traditional cargo peak time of November, cargo throughput grew to 342,000 tonnes, up 7.2% year-on-year. Aircraft movements also recorded a healthy growth of 3.8%, to 23,790 movements.

Passenger traffic is expected to be particularly busy during the Christmas and New Year period, Airport Management Director Howard Eng said.

He added travellers will enjoy the holiday fun and Christmas spirit at the airport which will present carol singers, musicians, young dancers, ballerinas and story tellers. Santa Claus will greet them with gifts and children can enjoy the handicraft workshop.