Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) will begin a major operational transition this month as its newly developed Terminal 2 (T2) departure facilities come online, prompting 15 airlines to relocate their check‑in counters from Terminal 1 in a phased rollout starting 27 May 2026.
The move marks a significant milestone in HKIA’s long‑term expansion strategy. T2, previously used only for arrivals, has been rebuilt to handle full departure operations as part of the airport’s multi‑year development programme. The shift of airlines from T1 to T2 is designed to ease congestion, improve passenger flow, and prepare the airport for future capacity growth as traffic continues to rebound.
Why airlines are relocating
The relocation is driven by the opening of T2’s new departure hall, which will distribute passenger volume more evenly across the airport and reduce pressure on Terminal 1 — historically HKIA’s busiest processing point. By moving 15 carriers into the new facility, the airport authority aims to streamline check‑in operations, shorten queues, and create a more balanced operational footprint across both terminals.
The transition also supports HKIA’s broader infrastructure upgrades, including the Three‑Runway System and expanded landside facilities, which together will significantly increase the airport’s handling capacity over the coming years.
Which airlines are moving and when
The relocation will take place in stages between 27 May and 10 June 2026, with airlines assigned to new check‑in aisles in T2 as follows:
- 27 May: Hong Kong Airlines (Aisle Q)
- 28 May: AirAsia, Batik Air Malaysia, Hainan Airlines, Philippines AirAsia, Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air (Aisles V–W)
- 2 June: Cambodia Airways, IndiGo, VietJet Air (Aisle W)
- 3 June: Bangkok Airways, Greater Bay Airlines, JEJU Air (Aisle V–Q)
- 9 June: Cebu Pacific Air (Aisle P)
- 10 June: HK Express (Aisle U)
Passengers travelling with any of these carriers are being advised to check their departure terminal in advance to ensure a smooth journey, particularly during the transition period when both terminals will be active for different airlines.
What passengers can expect at T2
The airport authority has highlighted that T2 will offer a refreshed departure experience, with updated check‑in zones, improved circulation space, and new digital wayfinding tools. A public information campaign is underway to familiarise travellers with the new layout and transport connections.
A short video guide has also been released to help passengers understand the new departure flow through T2.
A major step in HKIA’s long‑term expansion
The opening of T2’s departure facilities is one of the most visible signs of HKIA’s transformation as it prepares for future passenger growth. By redistributing airline operations and expanding processing capacity, the airport aims to deliver a smoother, more resilient travel experience — particularly during peak periods.
With the phased relocation now underway, HKIA enters a new operational era, positioning Terminal 2 as a fully fledged departure hub for the first time.