Old Airport of Hong Kong
The old airport of Hong Kong holds a special place in the hearts of Hong Kongers and aviation enthusiasts alike. This airport, which served as the main gateway to the city for several decades, was witness to many historic moments in the development of Hong Kong and the aviation industry in Asia. In this article, we will explore the history of the old airport, its facilities, destinations, and legacy.
The Early Days of Aviation in Hong Kong
The first airplane to arrive in Hong Kong was in 1911, when a French pilot named Charles Van den Born landed his biplane in a field in Sha Tin, in the New Territories. However, it wasn’t until the 1920s that the first commercial flights began operating in Hong Kong. These flights were operated by British airlines, and were mainly used for mail and freight transportation. By the 1930s, however, passenger flights had become more common, and the need for a proper airport in Hong Kong became apparent.
The First Airport in Hong Kong
The first airport in Hong Kong was Kai Tak Airport, which was opened in 1925. This airport was located in the Kowloon City district, and was originally just a grass strip for small planes. However, over the years, the airport was expanded and modernized, and eventually became one of the busiest airports in the world. At its peak, Kai Tak handled over 29 million passengers and 1.5 million tons of cargo per year.
The Move to a New Airport
Despite its success, Kai Tak had several limitations that made it unsuitable for future growth. The airport was located right in the heart of the city, which meant that it was difficult to expand and modernize. Additionally, the airport’s infamous "Checkerboard Approach" made it one of the most challenging airports for pilots to land at. As a result, plans were made to build a new airport in a more spacious location.
The History of the Old Airport
The old airport, also known as Kai Tak Airport, was in operation from 1925 to 1998. During its lifetime, the airport underwent many changes and renovations, in order to keep up with the ever-increasing demand. For example, in the 1970s, a new passenger terminal was built, which increased the airport’s capacity from 6 million to 12 million passengers per year. However, despite these efforts, the airport eventually reached its limit, and a decision was made to close it down and move to a new location.
The Facilities at the Old Airport
The old airport had several facilities that made it unique. For example, the airport’s runway was located right in the middle of Victoria Harbour, which meant that planes would have to fly low over the city’s skyscrapers in order to land. Additionally, the airport had a famous terminal building, known as the "Terminal One", which was designed to resemble a traditional Chinese pagoda.
The Destinations Served by the Old Airport
During its operation, the old airport served many destinations around the world. Some of the most popular destinations included London, New York, Tokyo, and Sydney. Additionally, the airport was a hub for several airlines, including Cathay Pacific, which had its headquarters in Hong Kong.
The Legacy of the Old Airport
The old airport has left a lasting legacy on Hong Kong and the aviation industry. Even though the airport has been closed for over 20 years, it is still remembered fondly by many people. Additionally, the airport’s famous "Checkerboard Approach" and its unique runway location have become iconic symbols of Hong Kong.
The Future of the Old Airport Site
After the airport was closed, the site was redeveloped into a new residential and commercial area known as "Kai Tak Development". This development has transformed the old airport site into a vibrant new community, complete with parks, shopping centers, and housing estates.
Conclusion: Remembering the Old Airport of Hong Kong
The old airport of Hong Kong was a symbol of the city’s progress and energy for many years. While it may no longer be in operation, its legacy lives on, and its iconic features will always be remembered. Whether you are a local or a visitor, the old airport is a must-see attraction, and a reminder of the city’s past and its bright future.
