The aviation industry is getting a HK$1 billion relief package from government with cash handouts and reduced air traffic control fees.

Four hundred aviation companies will benefit from a new government HK$1 billion relief package, helping them face industry challenges resulting from the Covid-19 outbreak.

The package consists of a government waiver of HK$670 million for Air Traffic Control Charges for 2019/2020, which will be passed on in full to the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) community, and HK$330 million in contributions from the Airport Authority.

The relief package is expected to benefit over 400 companies, including airlines, aviation support and associated passenger services, airport retail tenants and restaurants, and airport staff. The major portion of the support will be allocated to direct support measures for the aviation industry. Further rental concessions will also be provided to retail and restaurant tenants at the airport. A government scheme will also offer a training incentive for frontline airport staff to take on training while they are on unpaid leave.

A Government spokesman said, “The aviation industry is an important driver for Hong Kong’s economy. We are determined to maintain Hong Kong’s competitiveness as an international aviation hub, and even more so in challenging times. With the package of relief measures jointly rolled out by the Government and the AA, we stand with the airport community to weather the storm together.”

The HK$1 billion package comes hot on the heels of a total of HK$1.6 billion provided in two earlier rounds of relief measures and rent concessions announced in September 2019 and February 2016.