Hong Kong Business Aviation Centre (HKBAC), the sole FBO at Hong Kong International Airport, has broken ground on a HK$400 million ($51 million) expansion. Construction is scheduled to be conducted in two phases, with the first featuring the refurbishment and enlargement of the existing terminal with a new VIP lounge and suites for individuals, families, and groups. It will also see the enhancement of crew lounges and an upgrade to the on-site customs, immigration, and quarantine processing area with exclusive drop-off and fast-track check-in.

Outside, an 85-foot-wide aircraft arrivals canopy attached to the terminal building—the first of its kind in Asia—will protect passengers from the elements. As well, the number of vehicle parking spaces will be doubled.

The second phase will involve the construction of a second terminal to support large-capacity charter and group travel flights and provide additional tenant office space. This expansion will involve environmentally-friendly features such as solar panels, electric vehicle charging, and smart building management systems.

In pre-pandemic 2019, the facility handled 9,000 flights and more than 40,000 passengers. The project—slated for completion in 2025—will double HKBAC’s business jet handling capacity in conjunction with the opening of the airport’s new 3,800-meter (12,500-foot) third runway.

“Business aviation plays an important role in strengthening Hong Kong’s status as a global financial center, and Hong Kong International Airport’s position as an international aviation hub,” said Jack So Chak-kwong, chairman of the Hong Kong Airport Authority. “It provides business travelers with enhanced flexibility and efficiencies, which are advantages in our modern commercial world.”