Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is bracing for a potential 36-hour suspension of all flights as Super Typhoon Ragasa approaches the region, signaling one of the longest anticipated disruptions in recent years.
Safety Concerns Prompt Flight Suspension
Airport authorities cited the severity of Ragasa, which is forecast to bring strong winds, torrential rain, and turbulent conditions, making air travel unsafe. The decision to suspend operations is aimed at protecting passengers, airline crews, and ground staff from the storm’s impact.
Preparations Across the Region
As Hong Kong and nearby areas prepare for the typhoon, authorities have issued emergency alerts, distributed sandbags, and advised residents to secure property and avoid nonessential travel. HKIA officials are working closely with airlines to reschedule flights, assist stranded passengers, and provide timely updates.
Travel Advisory for Passengers
Travelers are strongly urged to check with their airlines before heading to the airport, as flight schedules are expected to remain highly fluid. Authorities emphasize that public safety remains the top priority amid Ragasa’s projected high-speed winds and heavy rainfall, which could trigger flooding, infrastructure damage, and other hazards.
Regional Impact
The anticipated suspension at HKIA follows a series of flight and ferry cancellations in Taiwan and the northern Philippines, where Ragasa has already prompted mass evacuations and widespread disruptions. Meteorologists continue to monitor the storm closely, urging residents and travelers to stay informed and make contingency plans for potential delays.
