In a 45-minute officials’ ceremony starting at 3 p.m., Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, Airport Authority Chairman Fred Lam Tin-fuk, Chinese Vice Minister of Transportation Xu Chengguang and Deputy Administrator of the Civil Aviation Administration of China Liang Nan delivered opening speeches on the start of the project.

The three-runway system has been hailed as a “game changer” for the city, reinforcing its status as an international aviation hub.

Lee called on airlines to improve their competitiveness as the city expands its bilateral air agreements and increase passenger and cargo capacity.

The highlight of the day was the simultaneous takeoffs and landings of the aircraft on the three runways. The flights also have social purposes, including providing students with a trip to Hong Kong airspace.

The megaproject is sparking high expectations, with state leaders urging local authorities to transform the city into a world-class international aviation hub – a vision laid out in Beijing’s latest five-year national plan.

Follow our live updates on the project opening.

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