The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has revised its forecast for Hong Kong’s aviation recovery, now projecting a return to pre-crisis levels by the end of 2024. This positive development aligns Hong Kong’s recovery timeline with the anticipated faster recovery in the broader Asia-Pacific region. IATA commends the Hong Kong government for its efforts to alleviate the labour shortage in the aviation sector, which is crucial for the industry’s revival.
In an effort to address the labour shortage, the Hong Kong government implemented a labour importation scheme, aiming to bolster the airport workforce by recruiting 6,300 workers from Mainland China. Despite robust demand for air travel, airlines in Hong Kong have encountered challenges related to supply chain issues and a shortage of available labour.
Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, expressed optimism about Hong Kong’s prospects, citing China’s earlier-than-expected reopening as a significant driver of passenger recovery. Walsh emphasised the importance of collaboration among the entire aviation community, including airlines, airports, regulators and the government. In August, Walsh plans to visit Hong Kong to engage in productive discussions with various partners.
In line with their collaborative efforts, IATA and the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) will jointly organise the Hong Kong Aviation Day on August 2-3, 2023. This event aims to foster cooperation, preparedness and explore future opportunities for the Hong Kong aviation industry.
