Hong Kong International Airport was inaugurated on Chek Lap Kok, following the transfer of operations from the aging Kai Tak Airport. The project was initiated to address the limitations of Kai Tak, which had become increasingly congested and could not meet the demands of modern air travel. The new airport featured a wide range of advanced technologies, a larger runway, and enhanced air traffic control systems, providing a significant boost to Hong Kong’s connectivity to the rest of the world. The airport’s opening involved extensive planning and construction that began in the early 1990s, with a budget of approximately HK$ 20 billion.

The grand opening was marked by a series of ceremonies, and the first commercial flight took off shortly after the official inauguration. The airport was designed to handle up to 68 million passengers annually, a substantial increase from the capacity of Kai Tak. It also boasted the world's first commercial airport with a dedicated airport express train service linking it to the city center. This facility not only improved transport options but also solidified Hong Kong's status as a dominant player in global aviation, enhancing trade, tourism, and international business connections in the region.

As a crucial part of the post-handover developments in Hong Kong, the launch of the airport represented a new era for the city. The government emphasized the significance of having a modern international airport to support Hong Kong's position during an economically transitional period marked by the 1997 handover from British to Chinese rule. The airport has since become a pivotal gateway for travelers and cargo in Asia, providing vital infrastructure that supports both local and international enterprises.