Airports are usually the first place to check out when one arrives in a new territory. They are a reflection of the culture and lifestyle of the metropolitan city inside which they operate. Airports need not be boring because the most happening hubs, such as the Hong Kong International Airport, are full of features and amenities that will keep passengers in transit super busy on their long layovers. It is not simply looked upon as a transportation hub as it is often perceived as a complex social and economic space that affects millions of lives.
Located on the island of Chek Lap Kok in Hong Kong, the airport is estimated to handle over 74 million passengers annually and approximately covers 1,255 hectares of area. The two terminals (1 and 2) are connected by the APM (Automated People Mover) system.
How to Contact HKIA
Hong Kong airport’s support staff are housed at HKIA Tower, 1 Sky Plaza Road, Hong Kong International Airport, Lantau, Hong Kong. You can call +852 2181 8888 for queries, complaints or feedback.
For lost and found baggage, you can follow this guide or call +852 2182 2018. Baggage storage is available at Level 5, Arrival Level, Terminal 1. Have a question on parking? This is the number (+852 2183 4360) to call.
More About the Airport
The airport was opened to the public in July 1998, replacing the former Kai Tak airport. It is owned and operated by the Airport Authority Hong Kong.
For the uninitiated, the Hong Kong airport enjoys the status of being a key international aviation hub given its strategic location, modern facilities, and efficient operations. It serves as a major gateway to Mainland China and is well-connected to the other major cities in Asia, Europe, and North America.
Many airlines have their operational base here, such as Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Airlines, Hong Kong Express, and Air Hong Kong.
HKIA (the airport code of Hong Kong International Airport) has won numerous awards in preceding years, including the SkyTrax World Airport Awards for ‘World’s Best Airport’ in 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2017. It also won ‘The Best Airport in China’ and ‘Best Airport Dining Experience’, and has won recognition for its sustainability efforts.
You will find numerous reasons to land yourself at least once in your life on this land to check out the Aviation Discovery Center, a 4D screen theater, and a golf course, besides the regular airport features at HKIA.
Overview of Terminals
HKIA has two passenger terminals – Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The larger of the two is Terminal 1, which covers an area of approximately 570,000 square meters. It has 5 levels. The Departures level at Terminal 1 offers a variety of shops, restaurants (at the Mezzanine level), and lounges, as well as check-in counters for airlines.
The Arrivals level offers baggage claim, customs and immigration facilities, transportation options, and other services, such as currency exchange and information counters. Terminal 1 also has a SkyPier ferry terminal, which connects to destinations in Mainland China and Macau.
Terminal 2 is the smaller of the two and covers an area of approximately 140,000 square meters. It is mainly used for check-in and departure procedures for low-cost carriers, charter flights, and regional airlines. It has shops, restaurants, and lounges as well, and is connected to Terminal 1 by the APM system. You can explore some additional shopping and dining options at the SkyPlaza; check out the IMAX theater and an aviation-themed play area for children.
How to Check Arrivals and Departures Online
If you want to check arrivals and departures at Hong Kong International Airport, visit their official website at www.hongkongairport.com. Click on the ‘Flights’ tab on the home page to access real-time flight information. Next, choose your search criteria by clicking on either ‘Arrivals’ or ‘Departures.’ Select the appropriate option based on the information you are looking for. You will be prompted to enter the flight number, airline, date and time, and origin/destination of the flight. You will soon be presented with the current status of the flight, including its estimated arrival/departure time, gate number, and any delays or cancellations.
You can also download the HKG My Flight app on your mobile device to access real-time flight information on the go.
All the Lounges Available at Airport
The lounge access at HKIA is usually restricted to passengers traveling in business or first class or those who have a membership with a lounge program. Having said that, some lounges at the airport do offer pay-per-use options. All the primary lounges are available at Terminal 1, some of which are presently temporarily closed. We are naming just a few below, you may check out their website for the latest updates.
Some of the exclusive lounge features are fine dining, shower facilities, workstations, private suites, relaxation areas, hot and cold beverages, free WiFi, among others.
The lounges at Terminal 1 are Cathay Pacific – The Pier Business Class Lounge; Cathay Pacific — The Bridge Business Class Lounge; Cathay Pacific — The Wing Business Class Lounge; Plaza Premium Lounge (East Hall and West Hall); The Centurion Lounge; and Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club
You can check out the entire list of lounges at the two terminals here at this link.
Amenities and Facilities Available
As a traveler, prep up to look forward to a world-class travel experience at HKIA with its vast range of outstanding features, facilities, and amenities.
It has two passenger terminals (as pointed out earlier) with modern facilities and services, including duty-free shopping, restaurants and cafes, lounges, and a variety of transportation options. Time will fly before you even know!
The Automated People Mover system at the airport connects the terminals, providing passengers with a fast and convenient way to travel between these locations.
Parents of children can take them to the Dream Come True Education Park, which offers educational exhibits and interactive experiences.
The airport is well-connected to the rest of the city by means of trains, buses, taxis, and rental cars, just in case you are wondering how to get started on your journey from the airport.
If you need to stay restricted to the airport area on a short layover but cannot afford to miss out on your professional meetings and deadlines, worry not! The airport provides free WiFi to passengers throughout its premises to help them stay connected and productive even while traveling.
For the extra something, be lucky and free to avail of the comfort food and ambiance at any one of the premium lounges at the airport. Check out the duty-free shopping areas for luxury brands, electronics, and souvenirs, if you never got enough time during your stay in Hong Kong to pick up something for your loved ones back home.
If you are looking for some action instead, check out the Aviation Discovery Center, which is an interactive museum with a range of exhibits and activities for visitors. The center has flight simulators, a cockpit mock-up, and educational displays about aviation and airport operations. Just the perfect space for inquisitive minds!
The 4D Extreme Screen Theater is a state-of-the-art theater, offers a unique and immersive movie experience to guests. You will particularly enjoy the special effects of wind, water, and scent.
Golf enthusiasts can take a sneak peek into the SkyCity Nine Eagles Golf Course, which is located near the airport, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
The environmentalist in you will be happy to know that HKIA is committed to sustainability and has implemented a range of green initiatives, including energy-saving measures.
