The International Air Transport Association (IATA) upgraded passenger traffic projections for Hong Kong.
It now sees a recovery to pre-crisis levels by the end of 2024.
This revision brings Hong Kong’s recovery in line with expectations for the rest of the Asia-Pacific region.
IATA also welcomed the Hong Kong government’s efforts to ease the city’s labour crunch in the aviation sector.
“The situation is looking bright for Hong Kong. China’s earlier than expected reopening is providing a much-needed boost,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
“By the end of 2024, we expect to see Hong Kong’s traffic return to pre-crisis levels.”
“It is encouraging to see the Hong Kong government preparing for this with workers needed to support the recovery.”
Hong Kong introduced a labour importation scheme to ramp-up the airport workforce by 6,300 workers from the Mainland.
While demand for air travel has been strong, airlines in Hong Kong have been struggling with staffing.
“It is important that the entire Hong Kong aviation community work together to address the challenges.”
IATA and the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) are partnering for the Hong Kong Aviation Day from 2-3 August 2023.
