From Rooftops to Runways: Tak Airport and Modern Lantau Infrastructure

Kai Tak Airport in Hong Kong, once famous for its thrilling landings, holds a special place in aviation history. Operating from 1925 to 1998, it was located in the dense urban area of Kowloon City, where planes flew alarmingly low over apartment buildings. Passengers could often see inside people’s homes, creating a unique but heart-pounding experience. Pilots had to navigate a sharp 47-degree turn just seconds before landing, making Kai Tak’s approach one of the most challenging in the world.

The airport’s closure in 1998 marked the end of an era, as operations shifted to the modern Hong Kong International Airport on Chek Lap Kok. This move was part of a larger effort to expand Hong Kong’s infrastructure, particularly on Lantau Island. The construction of the Lantau Link, which includes the iconic Tsing Ma Bridge, transformed access to Lantau by connecting it to the mainland via road and rail.

Before the road link, traveling to Lantau’s residential areas like Discovery Bay was a logistical challenge, with ferries being the primary mode of transport. For movers and residents alike, this added time and cost. The new road system has made moving significantly easier and more efficient, benefiting businesses and individuals. Additionally, the Lantau Link has paved the way for the development of large-scale projects, including the Tung Chung residential areas and Hong Kong Disneyland.

This development has fueled growth in these communities, making Lantau more accessible than ever. While the days of watching planes skim the rooftops in Kowloon are long gone, the enhanced connectivity and infrastructure on Lantau Island are a welcome change. They bring communities closer together and open up the island’s natural beauty to Hong Kong’s many city dwellers.