Aircraft Operations and Airworthiness

The ICAO conducted a safety oversight audit on the civil aviation management system of Hong Kong in November 2000 as part of its global Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme. The interim audit report was received in January. The overall comments on the effectiveness of Hong Kong's safety oversight system, in respect of aircraft operations, aircraft airworthiness and personnel licensing, were positive. The recommendations made by the ICAO were addressed by the CAD's action plan. All the action items were completed by July. The action plan was found to be satisfactory by the ICAO as mentioned in its final audit report sent to the CAD in September.

Aviation Security

The Aviation Security Ordinance (ASO) and Regulation are the comprehensive local legislation for implementation of the conventions and agreements with respect to aviation security promulgated by the ICAO. The Hong Kong Aviation Security Programme (HKASP), which was developed by the Government and in consultation with the airport operators, airlines and other concerned parties, stipulates the aviation security requirements for the various operators at the HKIA. The implementation of these requirements is closely monitored by the Government to ensure that they meet international standards.

Following the September 11 incidents, the Director-General of Civil Aviation has issued two Security Directions under the ASO to ban the carriage of any knife, knife-like object or bladed item into an aircraft cabin and the Enhanced Security Restricted Area (ESRA) of the HKIA, starting from September 28. The sale of those items at all airport shops and the use of bladed table knives in catering outlets within the ESRA are also banned.

In addition, the CAD has also directed Hong Kong based airlines operating scheduled passenger services to lock the cockpit door prior to take off until after landing to ensure pilot safety. Cabin crew entry to the cockpit must be preceded by a 'permission to enter' call via the cabin interphone system. Visits to the cockpit at any time by passengers or staff are no longer permitted in order to enhance security.