
Hong Kong International Airport is a major aviation hub, offering a range of transport options for travellers transferring through the airport. The airport boasts an efficient transport network, including taxis, buses, coaches, trains, and even ferries to Macao. For those transferring flights, there is no need to pass through immigration and customs if you hold an onward ticket and your bags are checked through to your final destination. The airport also provides resting lounges for transfer passengers to relax and unwind during their layover. Security measures are in place, with enhanced screening for liquids, electronics, and metallic items. Overall, Hong Kong International Airport provides a seamless transfer experience for travellers, ensuring a safe and convenient journey.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Transfer procedures | Smooth and efficient |
| Need for immigration and customs | Not required if holding an onward ticket and bags are tagged to the destination |
| Airport transfers | Airport Express, public buses, taxis, transport for special needs, residents' coaches, private transfers, Uber |
| Security regulations | In line with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) |
| Electronic and metallic items | Should be placed in a separate tray for security check |
| Liquids | Allowed in containers no larger than 100ml and placed in a transparent resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 litre |
| Resting areas | Resting Lounges located at Departures Level 6, pay-in lounges, and airline lounges |
| Other facilities | Free Wi-Fi, charging facilities, baggage services, wheelchair service |
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What You'll Learn

Transfer procedures at Hong Kong International Airport
Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has implemented strict security regulations in line with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to ensure a safe flying experience for all travellers. Here are the transfer procedures at Hong Kong International Airport:
Security Screening
HKIA recommends placing electronic and metallic items in your hand baggage or on your person in a separate tray for security checks. As of 13 August 2018, all transfer passengers travelling with LAGs (Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels) in tamper-evident sealed plastic bags must undergo enhanced security screening using specialised equipment at the transfer passenger security screening points. In some cases, LAGs in sealed bags will need to be removed for screening and will be repacked in a new sealed bag provided by HKIA if cleared.
Transferring to Another Flight
When transferring to another flight at HKIA, you must hold an onward ticket, and your bags should be tagged with your final destination. If you have no checked baggage, you can proceed to the departure area of your next international flight without going through immigration and customs. However, as a foreign citizen, you will need to clear immigration and customs, so ensure you allow sufficient time for this process.
Transport Options within Hong Kong
HKIA offers various transport options to get to your destination in Hong Kong:
- Airport Express: This is the quickest way to and from the city, with stops in Hong Kong, Kowloon, and Tsing Yi.
- Public Buses: Bus routes service all of Hong Kong, providing a relatively cheap way to get around, with fares ranging from HKD 3.7 to HKD 60.7.
- Taxis: Taxis offer a flexible way to reach your destination. The red urban taxis are the most commonly available, while green New Territories taxis serve the north-eastern part of Hong Kong, and blue Lantau taxis serve Lantau Island and Chek Lap Kok areas.
- MTR (Mass Transit Railway): The Octopus card is recommended for riding the MTR and other public transportation like buses and ferries. You can preload this card at the airport and use it for cashless payments at dining and shopping outlets as well.
- Other Options: For special needs, transportation with expert care and guidance is available. Additionally, residents' coaches provide quick and easy transport for neighbouring residents.
Overnight Layovers
If you have an overnight layover in Hong Kong, you can explore the city, but be mindful of the time required to return to the airport, go through security, and complete the check-in process for your next flight. You can also spend the night at the airport, but options for sleeping may be limited.
Remember to check the latest information on Hong Kong Airport's website regarding terminal operations and arrival procedures.
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Transport options to and from the airport
Hong Kong International Airport offers a variety of transport options for travellers to and from the airport.
The Airport Express is a dedicated rail service that connects the airport to the city centre. It is a quick and convenient way to travel, offering a comfortable and efficient journey.
Public buses are also available, providing an affordable and accessible option for travellers. These buses operate on various routes, connecting the airport to different parts of the city.
For those who prefer a more private option, taxis are readily available at the airport. Taxi services offer a direct journey to your destination and can be convenient for groups or individuals with special requirements.
Additionally, Hong Kong International Airport caters to travellers with special needs, ensuring accessibility for all. It also provides a resident's coach service and offers transport options for those travelling further afield, with connections to mainland China.
With a range of transport choices available, travellers can select the option that best suits their preferences, budget, and specific travel needs when arriving at or departing from Hong Kong International Airport.
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Transferring without a confirmed ticket
Officially, transferring without a confirmed ticket is not possible at Hong Kong International Airport. However, there are reports of airline staff being issued with a standby boarding pass after arriving without a confirmed ticket. In this case, the passenger was offloaded due to the flight being fully booked and they were told that next time they would need to go to the check-in desk and obtain a boarding pass, as it is not possible to transfer with a standby pass only.
If you are transferring at Hong Kong International Airport, it is important to have all your travel documents ready, including a valid passport, air ticket or booking confirmation, and any necessary visas. If you are travelling with an airline such as Greater Bay Airlines, with a same-day confirmed ticket, you can obtain your boarding pass at the beginning of your journey. If you are travelling on two separate tickets, you will only be provided with a boarding pass for the first flight, and you will need to obtain the second boarding pass at the arrival gate in Hong Kong or by contacting ground staff at the transfer desk.
If you are transferring without a confirmed ticket, it may be possible to obtain a standby boarding pass at the check-in desk, but this is not guaranteed and you may be denied boarding if the flight is fully booked. It is always best to check with your airline before arriving at the airport to understand their specific policies and procedures.
When transferring at Hong Kong International Airport, it is important to allow enough time for immigration and customs, especially if you need to clear these as a foreign citizen. The minimum connecting time between two flights at the airport is 55 minutes, but it is recommended to allow more time to ensure a smooth transfer.
If you have a long layover and wish to leave the airport, you will need to pass through immigration and customs. Once outside, Hong Kong city is easily accessible by train or bus. However, some passengers have reported being unable to leave the airport once they have passed through security, so it is important to check with airport staff before proceeding.
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Security screening for transfer passengers
Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has implemented strict security regulations in line with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to ensure a safe flying experience for all travellers. Here are some essential instructions for transfer passengers regarding security screening:
When transferring through Hong Kong International Airport, it is important to allow extra time for security screening procedures. All transfer passengers are required to undergo security checks, including inspections of hand baggage and, in some cases, body scans. Passengers should have their travel documents and boarding passes ready for inspection before proceeding to the security check.
Electronic and Metallic Items
Transfer passengers at HKIA must place all electronic and metallic items from their hand baggage or person into separate trays for security screening. This separation facilitates a thorough inspection of these items, ensuring compliance with airport security regulations.
Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAGs)
As of August 13, 2018, transfer passengers travelling with LAGs in tamper-evident sealed plastic bags are subject to enhanced security screening using specialised equipment. This measure ensures the safe transportation of liquids, aerosols, and gels within the airport. In certain cases, LAGs may need to be removed from their sealed bags for individual screening. Once cleared, the LAGs will be repacked in new tamper-evident sealed bags provided by HKIA.
Archway Metal Detector and Hand Search
Passengers are required to walk through an archway metal detector as part of the security screening process. Additionally, passengers may be subjected to a hand search by security personnel, depending on the circumstances. These measures are implemented to ensure the safety and security of all individuals passing through the airport.
Additional Measures for U.S.-Bound Passengers
Transfer passengers departing for the United States should be aware of additional security measures mandated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. These measures specifically pertain to electronic devices, and passengers affected by these requirements are advised to contact their respective airlines for further details.
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Resting lounges for transfer passengers
Hong Kong International Airport offers resting lounges for transfer passengers to unwind and rest before departure and during transit. These lounges are located throughout the airport. There are pay-in lounges that travellers can use for a reasonable charge. These include the Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club, located near Gate 40 on the Departures Level (L7) of Terminal 1, which is open from 6:00 am to 12:00 am. Eligible American Express cardholders can access The Centurion Lounge, which offers premium amenities, food, and beverages inspired by Hong Kong's local culture. Another pay-in lounge option is The Shower and Massage (Refreshhh by Aerotel), which provides shower rooms, hair blow-dry rooms, and a resting area.
Additionally, airline lounges are typically available for passengers of specific airlines and offer facilities such as hot showers, food and beverages, and a place to rest or work. It is important to note that transfer procedures and regulations may have changed due to COVID-19, and passengers should refer to the latest official sources for up-to-date information.
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Frequently asked questions
As long as you hold an onward ticket and your bags are tagged to your destination, you can reach the departure area of your next flight without going through immigration and customs.
There are a variety of transport options to transfer through Hong Kong, including the Airport Express train, public buses, taxis, and private transfers.
Yes, resting lounges are located at Departures Level 6 for passengers to unwind and relax during transit. There are also pay-in lounges with refreshments, internet access, and showers available for a fee.







































