Civil International Air Traffic Statistics at HKIA in December 2022

Introduction: As the year came to a close, Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) maintained its upward trajectory, building on the achievements of November. The provisional civil international air traffic statistics for December 2022 showcase remarkable growth in various key metrics, setting new records and reinforcing the airport’s position as a pivotal player in the global aviation landscape.

Record-Breaking Passenger Numbers Continue: December 2022 marked another milestone for HKIA, with passenger numbers continuing their upward climb. The total passenger count for the month reached an astounding 1,601,000, a 938.7% increase compared to the same period last year. Over the past 12 months, passenger traffic surged by an impressive 318.4%, totaling 5,653,000. While the growth rate is slightly lower than November’s historic figures, the continued surge underscores the sustained recovery and growing confidence in air travel.

Comparison with November: Comparing December’s passenger numbers to November’s record-breaking 1,048,000, we observe a significant increase, showcasing the airport’s ability to consistently attract high passenger volumes. December’s surge demonstrates the robustness of the recovery, even surpassing the extraordinary figures achieved in the previous month.

Cargo Handling and Stabilization Trends: The cargo handling sector in December continued to show signs of stabilization. Unloaded cargo experienced a 29.8% decline, totaling 112,000 tonnes, while loaded cargo saw a dip of 24.7%, reaching 239,000 tonnes. The overall cargo handling, encompassing both loaded and unloaded, showed a 26.4% decrease. Despite ongoing challenges, the cargo sector is exhibiting resilience in adapting to changing market conditions.

Comparison with November: Comparing December’s cargo handling statistics with November’s numbers, we observe a similar trend in stabilization. The figures maintain a level of decline, emphasizing the sector’s ability to navigate challenges and maintain a semblance of stability.

Flight Movements Showcase Resilience: December’s flight movement data reflects a mixed picture, with passenger flight movements increasing by an impressive 52.3%, totaling 9,290 movements. Cargo movements faced a 24.8% decrease, reaching 5,905 movements, and non-revenue flights displayed a 3.2% growth, totaling 575 movements. Despite variations, the overall flight movements increased by 8.7% over the past 12 months, settling at 15,770 movements.

Comparison with November: Comparing December’s flight movements with November’s data, we observe a continuation of resilience in passenger movements, showcasing a substantial 52.3% increase. While cargo movements experienced a decline, the overall flight movements increased, highlighting the airport’s ability to adapt and maintain growth.

Implications and Future Outlook: The December 2022 statistics underscore HKIA’s resilience and adaptability in the face of evolving challenges. The record-breaking passenger numbers, stabilization in cargo handling, and resilient flight movements paint a positive outlook for the aviation industry in Hong Kong. As global travel continues its recovery, HKIA remains a beacon of success, setting new records and solidifying its position as a key player in international air travel.

Conclusion: December 2022 will be remembered as a month of triumph for HKIA, with passenger numbers reaching unprecedented heights and the airport setting new records in various key metrics. As the aviation industry continues its recovery, HKIA stands as a testament to adaptability, resilience, and sustained growth. Looking ahead, the airport’s success in December bodes well for the future, signaling a robust and promising outlook for the global aviation landscape in 2023.