Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) has established an Aero Engine Handling Centre (AEHC), as it aims to increase Hong Kong’s involvement in the movement of aircraft engines.
Hong Kong is one of only two locations in Asia that has certified repair, modification and overhaul facilities for Rolls-Royce Trent engines, said Hactl. The company believes that with enhanced facilities and streamlined procedures, it can help to attract more engine traffic to and through Hong Kong.
The aircraft engines that already pass through Hactl’s existing facility often weigh over 8 tonnes and are frequently valued at over USD20 million. To boost its capacity, Hactl has installed additional outsize scales to double-check shipment weights and is forming a dedicated aero engine handling team.
Hactl added that freighters calling at its facility include the AN-124, which can carry up to five of the largest engines in its maindeck cargo compartment. Denis Kiselev, aerospace and maintenance, repair, overhaul (MRO) manager for Volga-Dnepr Group, said: “We are pleased to see that a long-standing partner such as Hactl is among those forward-thinking companies who understand the importance of developing aero engine handling, have acted on their own initiative to anticipate future customer needs, and are investing in upscaling and upgrading their facilities.”
Paul Cheng, Hactl general manager - service delivery, added: “Aero engines are very large and heavy, but also delicate and among the most valuable commodities we process. We are upgrading all aspects of our handling to ensure we continue to provide the ultimate in efficient and safe handling, while paving the way for potential future growth.
“By enhancing Hactl’s capabilities for handling this highly specialised and challenging cargo, we aim to enhance Hong Kong’s reputation as an important link in the global aero engine maintenance and repair network. This should attract additional aero engine business to Hong Kong and Hactl, and benefit our airport community, airline customers and service partners.”
