TNAG-1363-FCO40-1809-Hong-Kong-Hansard-reports-and-minutes-of-the-meetings-of-the-1985 — Page 57

STATEMENT BY THE HONOURABLE THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY IN LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL: WEDNESDAY 20 NOVEMBER 1985

Air Transport Policy

Introduction

For many years there has been only one active Hong Kong airline. In recent months, however, we have seen the establishment of two additional airlines. One is already operational and has mounted a number of charter services, and the other is planning to start operations at an early. date. Together they have made a total of 15 licence applications to the Air Transport Licensing Authority (ATLA), which are

which are to be the subject of a public enquiry next month. There is also a prospect of further airlines seeking to enter the air transport market shortly.

2..

This new situation has required the Government to reconsider its policy in relation to certain air services matters. It has done so, taking into account its overall responsibility and the interests of the travelling public and shippers. It has also had to take cognisance of the highly regulated nature of the international air transport industry.

3.

The Government considers it desirable that its policy on scheduled and non-scheduled operations by Hong Kong airlines should be known to the public and the airlines

themselves.