To improve the online coordination system that requires all general aviation operators to reserve slots at congested Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), the airport authority recently made several changes to the procedure. According to the Flight Service Bureau, a lack of enforcement has led to slot hoarding and mismanagement, and the authority now requires all operators flying in or out of Hong Kong to have confirmed in advance their landing permit, parking, ground handling and slots, as applicable.

Landing and takeoff slots can now be booked up to 14 days in advance, up from seven days, and the system will be monitored for signs of intentional abuse at the airport. Violations will be considered for any outbound flights canceled less than 72 hours before departure and delayed departures of more than two hours.

Aircraft space is at a premium at HKIA, which is home to more than 100 business jets, and the general aviation ramp, itself, can accommodate only about 20 aircraft. Parking is confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis and can be applied for up to 30 days in advance. But the Flight Service Bureau noted that parking requests for five days' duration or more are likely to be denied, as is any overnight parking during busy periods. The flight-planning information provider's advice is to keep filling out new applications until one is accepted.