TRANSPORT
Trial Phase CNS/ATM Trial and Evaluation (2000–2007)
Implementation Phase CNS/ATM Implementation and Transition (2003–2016)
Study of these next-generation ATC systems continued in 2000. To gain operational experience, trials were conducted by the department on five CNS/ATM elements during the year, with encouraging results. Trials on four other elements were scheduled for 2001.
Aircraft Noise Management
In Hong Kong, impact caused by aircraft noise is assessed on the basis of the internationally accepted 'Noise Exposure Forecast (NEF) Contour'. The determination of the contour takes into account factors including the decibel levels of aircraft noise, the tonal characteristics as well as the duration and frequency of overflying flights at different times of the day. The standard currently adopted in Hong Kong is the NEF 25 contour, which is more stringent than the standards adopted by some other airports. According to the results of the Environmental Impact Assessment study conducted by the AA prior to airport opening, apart from a few residential units in Sha Lo Wan, other residential areas in Hong Kong are outside the NEF 25 contour. As for the affected residents of Sha Lo Wan, the AA had provided them with an ex gratia allowance for installing noise insulation.
While other residential areas are outside the NEF 25 contour, the Government is mindful of the concern of some residents. The CAD continued its effort in exploring and implementing all practicable aircraft noise mitigating measures. These include noise abatement take-off and landing procedures, prohibition of landing/take-off of relatively noisy aircraft at night and, whenever possible, use of flight paths which cover fewer residential areas. Furthermore, the computer-based aircraft noise and flight track monitoring system was expanded to cover 15 monitors located at strategic locations under the flight paths or in the vicinity of the airport.
Aircraft Operations and Airworthiness
Between November 17 and 24 and as part of its global audit programme, the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) conducted a safety oversight audit on the civil aviation management system of Hong Kong in respect of aircraft operations, aircraft airworthiness and personnel licensing. The objective of the audit was to assess the effectiveness of Hong Kong's safety oversight system in ensuring the implementation of relevant ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices. An audit report will be issued by the ICAO in mid-2001.
Aviation Security
The Aviation Security Ordinance and Regulation provide comprehensive local legislation to implement aviation security-related conventions and agreements promulgated by the ICAO. The Hong Kong Aviation Security Programme (HKASP) developed by the Government, in consultation with the airport operators, airlines and other concerned parties, has laid down the aviation security requirements for different operators at the HKIA. These requirements form the basis for implementing effective aviation security measures at the airport, which are closely monitored by the Government to ensure that they are up to the highest international standards.
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