Hong Kong International Airport
香港國際機場
Hong Kong, Hong Kong · Since 1998
Last updated:
About HKG
Hong Kong International Airport, located on the artificial island of Chek Lap Kok, is one of the world's busiest and most modern airports. Opened in 1998 to replace the legendary Kai Tak Airport, HKIA was a remarkable engineering achievement, built largely on reclaimed land in just six years. The airport serves as the primary hub for Cathay Pacific and is a crucial gateway between mainland China and the rest of the world. Known for its efficiency, cleanliness, and extensive amenities, HKIA has won the Skytrax World's Best Airport award multiple times and remains one of Asia's premier aviation hubs.
Why "HKG"?
HKG comes from Hong Kong. The airport on Chek Lap Kok island replaced the legendary Kai Tak Airport in 1998. Often called Chek Lap Kok Airport by locals, it was built on a massive land reclamation project that flattened two islands.
Hub For
Airlines Operating
Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Airlines, HK Express, Greater Bay Airlines, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Japan Airlines, ANA, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, China Airlines, EVA Air, Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Lufthansa, Swiss, KLM, Air France, Qantas, Air New Zealand, Philippine Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, Air India, Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines
Terminals
Terminal 1
Terminal 1 is the main terminal handling the vast majority of flights. One of the largest airport terminals in the world, it features a dramatic high-ceiling design with excellent natural lighting. The terminal includes extensive duty-free shopping, a wide variety of restaurants, IMAX cinema, and the iconic SkyBridge connecting to the midfield concourse. Known for extremely efficient operations and cleanliness.
Terminal 2
Terminal 2 primarily serves as the check-in and departure hall for budget carriers and some mainland China flights. Passengers check in here and then proceed to Terminal 1 gates via the SkyPlaza connection. The SkyPlaza mall above Terminal 2 features shops, restaurants, and an IMAX cinema accessible to all.
Midfield Concourse
The Midfield Concourse opened in 2016 to expand capacity with an additional 20 gates. Connected to Terminal 1 via the automated people mover (APM). Features modern gate areas, a selection of restaurants, shops, and Cathay Pacific lounges. The concourse has a stunning architectural design with sweeping curves and excellent natural light.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at HKG
Showing 8 of 72 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
Airport Express train reaches Hong Kong Station (Central) in 24 minutes (HK$115) and Kowloon Station in 21 minutes (HK$105). Free shuttle buses from Hong Kong and Kowloon stations to major hotels. Citybus and Long Win bus services to all parts of Hong Kong. Taxi to Central costs around HK$300-400 (red taxis for urban areas). Cross-boundary coaches to mainland China cities including Shenzhen and Guangzhou. High-speed ferry services (SkyPier) to mainland China and Macau. The airport is connected to the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge with buses to these destinations.
Taxi
HK$250-350 (~$32-45 USD) to Central/Kowloon
30-45 minutes to city center
Public Transport
HK$100-115 (~$13-15 USD) Airport Express
24 minutes to Hong Kong Station to city center
Parking at HKG
Terminal 1 Car Park
Terminal 2 Car Park
SkyCity Car Park
AsiaWorld-Expo Car Park
Airport Lounges
Cathay Pacific The Pier First Class Lounge
Widely considered one of the best first class lounges in the world. Features individual day suites with daybeds, a full-service restaurant, a long cocktail bar, shower suites with Aesop amenities, and a stunning Retreat area with foot massage baths. The design by Ilse Crawford is a masterclass in understated luxury.
Cathay Pacific The Wing First Class Lounge
Located near gate 1 with spectacular tarmac views. Features cabana-style shower suites with bathtubs, a chef station with made-to-order dishes, champagne bar, and a refined dining area. The shower cabanas with private bathtubs are a highlight unique to this lounge.
Cathay Pacific The Pier Business Class Lounge
One of the best business class lounges globally. Features the Noodle Bar serving freshly made dan dan noodles and wonton soup, a full food hall, The Bureau work area, shower rooms, and the Relaxation Room with daybeds. Consistently excellent food and a calm, sophisticated atmosphere.
Qantas Hong Kong Lounge
Qantas flagship lounge in Asia featuring Neil Perry-inspired dining with Asian and Western dishes, a well-stocked bar with Australian wines, shower facilities, and comfortable seating. A refined space that reflects Qantas premium lounge standards.
Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge
Singapore Airlines dedicated lounge at Hong Kong offering a premium experience. Hot local and international dishes, bar service, shower rooms, and well-designed work stations. Quality food with Asian specialties. A comfortable alternative to the often-crowded independent lounges.
Emirates Lounge
Emirates dedicated lounge with an international buffet, bar, shower rooms, and business center. Features both Western and Middle Eastern dishes. Premium Champagne for First Class passengers. A comfortable pre-flight space for Emirates travelers.
Plaza Premium Lounge (Terminal 1 East Hall)
One of the largest independent lounges at HKG, open 24 hours. Features hot Asian and Western buffet, noodle bar, shower facilities, rest zones, and a bar. The 24-hour operation makes it ideal for red-eye arrivals or early morning departures. Multiple lounge areas across Terminal 1.
Where to Stay
Connected Hotels
Regal Airport Hotel
Directly connected to Terminal 1 via enclosed SkyBridge on the departures level
The only hotel directly connected to the airport terminal. Walk indoors from Terminal 1 via a covered bridge. Full-service luxury hotel with 9 restaurants, swimming pool, fitness center, and spa. Day rooms available for layover passengers. The most convenient option for transit.
Nearby Hotels
Novotel Citygate Hong Kong
In Tung Chung, one MTR stop from the airport (5 min) at Citygate Outlets mall
Located at Citygate Outlets shopping mall in Tung Chung, just one MTR stop from the airport. Outdoor pool, fitness center, and proximity to outlet shopping. The Ngong Ping 360 cable car to Big Buddha is also accessible from Tung Chung. Good balance of convenience and value.
Sheraton Hong Kong Tung Chung
In Tung Chung, one MTR stop from airport, next to Citygate Outlets
Modern hotel in Tung Chung offering mountain views, outdoor pool, spa facilities, and excellent dining. Convenient access to the airport via Tung Chung MTR station. Adjacent to Citygate Outlets for shopping. A comfortable pre-flight stay with more space than airport hotels.
Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel
Adjacent to SkyCity complex, 5-minute shuttle or 10-minute walk from Terminal 1
Modern Marriott hotel in the SkyCity complex near the airport. Features comfortable rooms, rooftop pool, fitness center, and multiple dining outlets. Free shuttle to the terminal. Day rooms available. Close to AsiaWorld-Expo for convention travelers.
Capsule Hotels
HKIA Sleeping Pods (Plaza Premium Sleep)
Airside in Terminal 1, near gate 60 area
Compact sleeping pods available airside for transit passengers. No need to clear immigration. Hourly and overnight rates available. Includes a comfortable bed, reading light, privacy curtain, and shared shower facilities. Ideal for red-eye arrivals or long connections.
Food & Dining
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
American Fast Food
Popular fried chicken chain with a dedicated following in Hong Kong. The spicy chicken sandwich and biscuits are popular choices. Halal-certified in Hong Kong, making it one of the few halal options airside at HKG.
6:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao
Chinese (Shanghainese)
Famous for handmade xiao long bao (soup dumplings) and la mian (hand-pulled noodles). Watch noodle chefs through the glass kitchen. The pork soup dumplings and dan dan noodles are must-orders. Efficient service makes it viable even with a short connection.
7:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Tsui Wah
Hong Kong Cha Chaan Teng
Iconic Hong Kong-style cafe (cha chaan teng) serving local favorites 24 hours a day. Try the crispy bun with butter, milk tea, instant noodles with spam and egg, or the club sandwich. An authentic taste of everyday Hong Kong dining at very reasonable prices.
24 hours
Ajisen Ramen
Japanese Ramen
Popular Japanese ramen chain serving steaming bowls of tonkotsu, miso, and shoyu ramen. The rich pork broth ramen and gyoza dumplings are reliable choices. Quick service and filling portions make it a practical pre-flight meal.
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Pacific Coffee
Coffee / Cafe
Hong Kong own coffee chain offering quality espresso drinks, teas, and light meals. The Hong Kong milk tea and yuan yang (coffee-tea mix) are local specialties worth trying. Multiple locations make it easy to grab coffee near your gate.
6:00 AM - 12:00 AM
SkyPlaza Food Hall
Food Court / Mixed
A large food court in the SkyPlaza shopping complex above Terminal 2. Multiple stalls offer Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai, and Western options. Good variety and generally more affordable than airside restaurants. Accessible to all visitors without a boarding pass.
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Car Rental
Hertz
Arrivals Hall A, Ground Transportation Centre
Avis
Arrivals Hall A, Ground Transportation Centre
Budget
Arrivals Hall A, Ground Transportation Centre
National
Arrivals Hall A, Ground Transportation Centre
What to Do During a Layover
Inside the Airport
Aviation Discovery Centre
An interactive aviation-themed exhibition near Terminal 2. Features flight simulators, aviation history exhibits, and a rooftop viewing deck overlooking the runways. Fun for aviation enthusiasts and families. The flight simulator experience is popular with children.
Massage and Spa at Be Relax
Professional massage and spa treatments available airside. Choose from foot massage, body massage, and express treatments. No appointment needed for the express service. A perfect way to refresh during a layover without leaving the terminal.
IMAX Theatre at SkyPlaza
Catch a movie at the UA IMAX theatre in SkyPlaza above Terminal 2. Large screen, comfortable seats, and latest Hollywood and Asian releases. A great way to kill time during a long layover. Accessible landside, no boarding pass needed.
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Citygate Outlets Shopping
Take the S1 bus to Tung Chung (15 min) for discount shopping at Citygate Outlets. Over 80 international brands at 30-70% off including Nike, Adidas, Coach, and more. The mall has a large food court. Much better value than airport duty-free shopping for clothing and accessories.
Visit Ngong Ping Big Buddha
Take the S1 bus to Tung Chung then ride the Ngong Ping 360 cable car (25 min scenic ride) to see the Tian Tan Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. Stunning views of Lantau Island mountains and the South China Sea. The monastery serves vegetarian lunch. Allow 4-5 hours total.
Victoria Peak and Star Ferry
Take the Airport Express to Central (24 min) and ride the iconic Peak Tram to Victoria Peak for breathtaking panoramic views of the Hong Kong skyline. On the way back, take the Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour from Central to Tsim Sha Tsui. Allow 5-6 hours including travel.
Explore Tai O Fishing Village
Take a bus from Tung Chung to the traditional stilted fishing village of Tai O on Lantau Island (1 hour). Explore narrow alleyways, see traditional stilt houses, sample dried seafood, and take a boat ride to spot pink dolphins. An authentic glimpse of old Hong Kong. Allow 5-6 hours total.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●●●
- Power Outlets: Type G (British three-pin), USB charging stations, some Type A/C adapters at charging kiosks
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: HK$55-90 per item per day (~$7-12 USD) at the left luggage counter in Arrivals Hall
- Showers: Free in airline lounges; Plaza Premium Lounge shower from HK$180 (~$23 USD)
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
- Pet Relief Areas
Money & Currency
- Currency: Hong Kong Dollar (HKD / HK$)
- Exchange: Travelex and local exchange counters throughout Terminals 1 and 2. HSBC and Hang Seng Bank ATMs widely available. Money changers in Arrivals Hall A and B.
- Hours: 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM (main counters), ATMs 24 hours
- Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. 10% service charge is usually added at restaurants. Rounding up taxi fares is common. Porters appreciate HK$10-20 per bag.
ATMs offer the best exchange rates. Hong Kong has no foreign exchange controls, so rates are competitive. The HKD is pegged to the USD at approximately 7.8:1, making conversion easy for US travelers.
Smoking Areas
Designated smoking areas located in the departures level before security and in designated outdoor zones. No smoking areas airside. E-cigarettes are banned in Hong Kong.
Lost & Found
- Phone: +852-2181-8152
Entry Requirements
Visa Information
Citizens of over 170 countries can enter Hong Kong visa-free for periods ranging from 7 to 180 days. US, UK, EU, Canadian, Australian, and Japanese citizens get 90 days. A separate visa is required to enter mainland China.
Insider Tips
Airport Express is the fastest and most comfortable way to the city - the In-Town Check-In service allows you to check luggage at Hong Kong or Kowloon stations before your flight. Immigration is typically very efficient. The Cathay Pacific lounges are exceptional - The Pier in Terminal 1 is particularly impressive. Shop for electronics with caution - compare prices and ensure warranty validity in your home country. Hong Kong Airport has excellent connectivity to mainland China via the Bridge Bus and ferries. The SkyCity Marriott and Regal Airport Hotel are excellent options for early departures. Consider the Airport Express Group Discount for traveling with others.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
IMAX Theatre showing latest releases. UA Cinema and 4D Extreme Screen experiences. SkyCity Nine Eagles golf course adjacent to the airport. Regal Airport Hotel connected to Terminal 1. Aviation Discovery Centre with interactive exhibits. Extensive duty-free shopping with electronics, fashion, and cosmetics. Numerous restaurants including Cantonese dim sum, Japanese, Western options, and Hong Kong-style cha chaan teng. The Pier First Class Lounge (Cathay Pacific) is one of the world's finest. Plaza Premium Lounges throughout. Free WiFi with unlimited data. Shower facilities in most lounges. Smoking rooms available.
Official Website
Phone
+852-2181-8888
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