Airport Authority Hong Kong has released the traffic figures for Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) for October 2021, which show that cargo throughput was 462,000 tonnes during the month, a double-digit increase of 14.7% compared to the same month last year.

The airport also handled 137,000 passengers and 13,995 flight movements, representing year-on-year increases of 72.6% and 28.7%, respectively.

The increase in cargo throughput in October was mainly attributed to a 16.5% growth in exports as well as the beginning of the traditional peak period for air cargo shipments.

Imports and transshipments also recorded double-digit growth. Cargo to and from North America, Southeast Asia and Europe experienced the most significant increases during the month.

Due to the on-going COVID-19 pandemic, passenger traffic remained significantly below pre-pandemic levels recorded in 2019. However, outbound transfer passengers from Mainland China to Europe recorded significant increases.

Over the first 10 months of the year, HKIA handled 1.1 million passengers and 115,415 flight movements, representing year-on-year declines of 87.6% and 14.8%, respectively. Cargo handled rose 13.3% during the period to 4.1 million tonnes.

Vivian Cheung, executive director, airport operations of AAHK, said: “It is an honour to receive these two notable recognitions. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the airport community has demonstrated exceptional commitment and professionalism in maintaining smooth and efficient operations at HKIA and providing safe and pleasant journeys for travellers. By introducing a number of hygiene measures designed to ensure passenger safety, and innovative technologies to further enhance the passenger experience, HKIA has shown that it stands ready as always to welcome passengers from around the world.”