Asia Airfreight Terminal (AAT), a subsidiary of SATS Ltd and an affiliate of Eastern Option Ltd, hasrenewed its franchise agreement withAirport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), securing a further 15years of operations at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) from 2028 to 2043.
Announced on 13 October 2026, the renewal reinforces AAT’s long-term commitment to Hong Kong’sair cargo sector as the airport expandsits operational capabilities following the full commissioningof its Three-Runway System. Enhanced multimodal connectivity across theGreater Bay Area isalso expected to support the airport’s role as a major international cargo gateway.
Capacity Expansion Targets Two Million Tonnes
Under the renewed franchise, AAT plans to continue investing in infrastructure, technology andoperational capabilities, with the statedobjective of increasing its cargo-handling capacity to twomillion tonnes.
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The investment programme is intended to support the long-term development of Hong Kong’s aircargo industry as demand for efficientfreight handling, reliable terminal operations and integratedsupply-chain services continues to shape airport infrastructure planning.
Mike Chew, chief executive officer of AAT, said the company was honoured to continue its longstandingpartnership with Airport AuthorityHong Kong. He added that nearly three decades of experienceat HKIA would underpin further investment in terminal infrastructure andoperational technology.
The company has not specified a timetable for achieving the two-million-tonne target or detailedthe investment required to deliver theplanned expansion.
Strengthening Hong Kong’s Air Cargo Hub
The franchise extension comes as Hong Kong International Airport continues to develop its positionwithin regional and international freightnetworks. The Three-Runway System provides additionalairport infrastructure, while links with the Greater Bay Area offer opportunitiesto improve cargo flowsbetween Hong Kong and manufacturing, distribution and consumption centres across southern China.
AAT is one of the airport’s established cargo terminal operators, providing physical cargo handling anddocumentation services for airlinecustomers. Its facilities also include AAT COOLPORT, a specialisedtemperature-controlled facility supporting pharmaceutical and perishableshipments.
