Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) continued its upward cargo trajectory in June, with robust transhipment demand reinforcing its status as one of the world’s leading air freight hubs.
According to figures released by Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), the airport handled 436,000 tonnes of cargo during the month, marking a 6.8% year-on-year increase. Growth was largely driven by transhipment traffic, which surged 19.5%, while exports rose 3.2% and imports climbed 5.5%, reflecting steady demand across major global trade routes.
Middle East and Asia drive momentum
Cargo volumes to and from the Middle East recorded the strongest regional growth in June, returning to expansion despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. Continued gains from Southeast Asia and the Chinese Mainland also played a key role in supporting HKIA’s overall performance.
These results highlight the airport’s resilience in navigating geopolitical uncertainty and evolving global supply chains.
First-half cargo volumes reach 2.5 million tonnes
In the first six months of 2026, HKIA processed a total of 2.5 million tonnes of cargo, up 4.1% compared with the same period last year.
Passenger traffic for the period rose 11.7% to 32.8 million, while aircraft movements increased 4.4% to 200,685.
For June alone, HKIA handled 5.12 million passengers and 31,940 flight movements, representing year-on-year increases of 7.9% and 2.3%, respectively. Passenger growth was supported by strong demand for transfer and transit travel, particularly from Japan and the Chinese Mainland.
Annual cargo throughput tops five million tonnes
On a rolling 12-month basis, HKIA handled 5.17 million tonnes of cargo, a 3.7% increase year on year.
Over the same period, passenger numbers reached 64.4 million, up 12.7%, while aircraft movements rose 5.9% to 403,120.
Global recognition for cargo excellence
HKIA’s cargo operations also received significant international recognition in June. At the World Air Cargo Awards 2026, organised by Air Cargo Week, the airport was named Airport of the Year – Major Cargo Hub for the second consecutive year.
It also secured the Air Cargo Innovation Award for its Hong Kong Air Import SmartCollect initiative, highlighting its advancements in digitalisation and operational efficiency.
Further accolades came at the Asian Freight, Logistics and Supply Chain Awards (AFLAS) 2026, where HKIA was named Best Global Airport for the 11th consecutive year and retained the Best Airport – Asia (Over 1 Million Tonnes) title.
Continued focus on innovation
Chapman Fong, Director of Hub Development at AAHK, said the strong first-half performance reflects the airport’s extensive global network and logistics capabilities.
He added that ongoing investment in innovation and digital solutions across the cargo supply chain will continue to enhance efficiency, streamline operations, and strengthen Hong Kong’s position as a leading international air cargo hub.