5 September 2024
Award recognises company’s excellence in aviation industry
A commitment to providing leading ground-handling services, safety and sustainability were the key reasons behind Hong Kong Airport Services (HAS) taking the “Excellence Award – Aviation” in the Hong Kong Business National Business Awards 2024.
The largest ground handler operating at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), HAS has worked tirelessly to establish itself as the leader in providing services for a diverse customer base ranging from full-service premium airlines to low-cost carriers and freighter operators. The team aims to deliver the highest level of service to meet customers’ needs.
Never content to rest on its laurels, the company has pushed forward in implementing digital and data-centric systems to boost operational efficiency and offer ever-improving services. Underpinning everything HAS does is its continued safety excellence and focus on operating sustainably.
“We are delighted to receive this honour in the Hong Kong Business National Business Awards which give recognition to exceptional local businesses in Hong Kong,” said HAS Chief Operating Officer Maggie Wong. “The award reflects the hard work and dedication of the entire HAS team in working towards our goal of becoming the best ground handler in Asia.”
Focus on operational excellence
The company has established a strong presence at HKIA, providing ramp and cargo services, passenger services and transportation services for a diverse customer base of more than 30 clients. Its dedicated team of 2,300-plus employees utilises more than 2,400 items of ground services equipment to run a seamless round-the-clock operation at HKIA.
The scale of that operation is impressive. Annually, HAS handles more than 62,000 departure flights, 2.9 million passengers, 1.3 million units of baggage and cargo and 1.2 million rides on its transportation services. New technologies and innovative solutions are being introduced to good effect. For example, the self-developed Ramp Handling System 2.0 has improved efficiency and effectiveness by summarising real-time data and reports, allowing for a holistic overview of the operational status of both management and supervisors.
Commitment to safety and sustainability
HAS puts a priority on creating a safe, healthy and secure working environment for staff and stakeholders alike, ensuring that their experiences are positive and their advancements in life are supported.
Among recent initiatives, the company has conducted heat stress risk assessments to identify and eliminate potential health and safety hazards resulting from extreme weather conditions. It has also implemented a heat stroke prevention safety campaign alongside measures to ensure employees stay hydrated and cool while working outdoors.
Sustainability, meanwhile, has always been a core component of the HAS operation. With the goal of reaching Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050, the company is implementing a long-term phased fleet electrification plan, with 100% of its private cars operating in restricted areas at HKIA already electrified. Reducing waste is another priority. One of the initiatives, the E-Cargo Consignment form launched in Q4 2023 is saving more than 100,000 pieces of paper annually.
“Airport operations are becoming increasingly complex and competitive so it’s vital that we stay on top of our game in every area to ensure our continued success,” said HAS Chief Executive Officer Agatha Lee. “With the addition of the third runway at HKIA, we are excited about the opportunities this will bring. We remain committed to providing excellent services to our customers and are eager to welcome new airlines, contributing to the growth of Hong Kong as a world-class aviation hub.”
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