Airport Authority Hong Kong wins at GovMedia Conference & Awards 2025
The organisation was recognised for leading the way in digital transformation with enterprise 5G infrastructure.
Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) emerged as the recipient of the Hong Kong Digital Transformation of the Year - Aviation accolade at the GovMedia Conference & Awards 2025, with the full rollout of its Enterprise 5G Infrastructure in Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).
The Enterprise 5G Infrastructure was fully deployed in mid-2022 and is now being extended to support the Three-runway System (3RS) development. It supports both private 5G network for airport operational needs and public 5G network for all local mobile network operators to provide 5G services to travellers. This private 5G network enables secure and ultra-fast communication across HKIA, ensuring smooth operations and a better experience for passengers, staff, and partners.
HKIA is the first airport in the world to implement a comprehensive end-to-end Standalone (SA) private 5G network, integrating 5G New Radio (NR) technology and utilising dedicated C-band and millimetre wave (mmWave) spectrum to create a future-ready digital foundation.
Over 50 innovative applications are already live on HKIA’s private 5G network, driving smarter and more efficient airport operations. Fleets of autonomous electric tractors, autonomous patrol cars, and autonomous shuttle buses are now actively operating at the airport. Powered by 5G’s ultra-low latency, these vehicles transmit real-time high-definition video and allow remote emergency control. AAHK plans to expand autonomous public transportation to Airport City Link, which will connect Hong Kong Port of Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and the Airport City. It will be the first autonomous mass transportation system in Hong Kong.
Terminal operations have also become more efficient, with movable display panels receiving instant updates via the private 5G network to provide travellers with navigation information and government notifications. 5G-enabled mobile check-in kiosks can be flexibly deployed throughout the terminal, speeding up check-in times and significantly enhancing the overall travel experience.
The Enterprise 5G Infrastructure also enables widespread and numerous connections of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, which supports applications like baggage handling, environmental monitoring, and even building structural integrity checking. In baggage hall areas, private 5G supports facial recognition systems that facilitate automated staff verification and provide real-time video monitoring from remote locations. Additionally, high-resolution 4K cameras at aircraft parking stands stream footage directly to the Airfield Operations Centre, support remote marshalling and improve operational efficiency.
HKIA’s digital transformation goes beyond simply adopting new technology; it is about redefining how airports operate, serve passengers, and support airport community. Spearheaded by the AAHK, the Enterprise 5G Infrastructure has powered a wide range of intelligent airport operations, marking a major milestone in HKIA’s journey of digital transformation and becoming a world-class “Airport City”.
GovMedia Conference & Awards gives recognition to the trends and best practices that transform the public sector in the Asia Pacific. The awards programme promotes excellence and provides a platform for exemplary government initiatives.
The Gov Media Awards is presented by Gov Media Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2026 awards programme and be recognised for your organisation's government projects and initiatives, please contact Jane Patiag at [email protected].
