Move over, Changi! 8 reasons to love Hong Kong International Airport – from Michelin-starred dining like Duddell’s and luxurious HKIA lounges with Cathay Pacific and Qantas, to K11’s project 11 Skies

Jul 17 , 2023

Hong Kong International Airport has upgraded its offerings since its pre-pandemic era. Photo: @hongkongairport/Instagram

There’s plenty of reasons to love HKIA as it offers much more than a quick pit stop between destinations – the Fosters and Partners-designed Chek Lap Kok space is an entertainment hub in its own right

It’s emerging as competitor with Singapore’s award-winning Changi Airport, with new facilities, sustainable initiatives and the upcoming 11 Skies, home to over 800 shops and 120 F&B outlets

Singapore’s Changi Airport was once again voted the winner of this year’s World Airport Awards, but Hong Kong International Airport is fast catching up in traveler convenience and luxury.

This month marks the 25th anniversary of Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA)’s relocation from Kai Tak to its new (and current) location Chek Lap Kok. Its predecessor was notorious for having plane landings amid high-density surroundings that could rattle even the steeliest of pilots.

A landmark project designed by the renowned architectural firm Foster and Partners, Chek Lap Kok Airport quickly emerged as one of the most advanced airports in the world – as well as one of the largest.

HKIA is turning 25 this month. Photo: @hongkongairport/Instagram

With HKIA turning 25 this month, it’s an opportune time to reflect on the profound impact that this institution has had – not just on Hong Kong, but as a global gateway and ambassador of the city.

From Michelin-starred dining outlets and cutting-edge technology, to convenient public transport links and five-star luxury lounges, here are eight reasons why Hong Kong’s airport is still one of the greatest in the world.

1. No small feat of engineering

Hong Kong International Airport was a monumental architectural project. Photo: Handout

Once a small, mountainous island, Chek Lap Kok was formerly characterised by peaks soaring to 100 metres. Today, it stands a modest seven metres above sea level, with the area expanded to around four times its original size thanks to one of the most ambitious land reclamation projects in modern history.

2. Some of the best dining experiences in town

Duddell’s opened at HKIA. Photo: Handout

Hong Kong is a food-lover’s paradise, so it makes sense that its airport acts as a microcosm of the city’s gastronomic landscape. Most airports settle for ubiquitous fast food chains like McDonald's, Burger King or Starbucks. But HKIA goes a step beyond, casting a spotlight on local culinary heroes, including many recognised by the prestigious Michelin Guide.