Community Engagement with Students from the Chinese University of Hong Kong on Airport Economics and Aviation Security

2022-04-20

Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific had the pleasure of being invited to speak with a group of undergraduate students from the Investment and Research Society of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUIRS) on 14th April.

Mr. Gary Leung, Manager, Security and Facilitation, Mr. Philip Kwok, Economic Research Analyst, and Ms. Cecilia Lai, Assistant Manager, Technical Affairs engaged with the students via a virtual discussion covering a range of topics including traffic recovery trends, airport economics and financial performance, aviation security and the concept of seamless traveler journey.

The students were particularly interested in learning about the latest near-term and long-term traffic forecasts in different regions, and how travel restrictions and macroeconomic factors affected travelers’ behavior in the phase of recovery. The discussion also touched upon ESG best practices and diversification of airport revenue streams. It was agreed that the advent of COVID-19 serves as an opportunity to rebuild the industry better than before and pave the way for a sustainable development.

Moreover, the students were introduced to the basics of aviation security and some of the emerging security threats faced by the aviation industry. A number of latest technologies that could enhance security standards while providing a simpler and more effective clearance of passengers and baggage at airports were highlighted during the discission, such as the adoption of artificial intelligence and automation in security.

The engagement with the students highlights the value propositions generated by the industry is not only limited to industry stakeholders, but also to future generations. The depth of understanding and passion about aviation demonstrated by the students from CUIRS were greatly appreciated.

ACI Asia-Pacific is committed to continue contributing to local communities and assisting its airport members and World Business Partners deliver social-economic benefits to the communities they serve.