Are you aware of new runway slot requirements at Hong Kong? The following are slot coordination changes that every operator needs to know.

Whether you’re based in Hong Kong or just occasionally operating to Hong Kong, everyone is aware of the challenges involved in obtaining the required runway slots for departure and arrival. The fact that less than 3% of the total available slots in HKIA are open to General Aviation is a well-known fact.

Understanding this, the Civil Aviation Department of Hong Kong committed to the development of possible solutions to the persistent problems. The HKCAD conducted research which found that 53% of the slots (amounting to 2429 slots) requested and confirmed had not been used. 77% of these were canceled with less than 24-hour notice while others were not canceled at all. This is an ongoing issue at HKIA.

In an attempt to improve the situation and reduce slot wastage, the following measures are being enforced with immediate effect by HKCAD in coordination with HKBAC (the sole GA handling agent in Hong Kong). The result of these actions will be a reduction in unused slots and improved traffic flow along with the increased efficiency of the existing facilities.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Slots can only be obtained through the centralized slot coordination system
2. In order to obtain a slot you are required to supply a copy of the landing permit for charter operations
3. Handling through HKBAC will be confirmed only after a copy of the landing permit has been provided, and a slot matching the requested schedule and parking arrangements is confirmed
4. Any slots booked on the system and not matching the records of BAPS and handling arrangements will be canceled automatically, and the violators will be penalized
5. Repetitive violators will be suspended from the slot coordination system and their access will be restricted

While some of the above requirements may seem extreme for many operators, such measures are necessary to improve the system and will be enforced equally to all operators. We strongly support the steps taken with a hope that abiding by the rules will help to improve the situation allowing more operators the use of HKIA and thereby reduce the necessity of repositioning aircraft elsewhere or using alternative airports. We are happy to continue to work hand in hand with the entire community in order to improve the business aviation environment in Hong Kong.

For more information see www.cad.gov.hk