HKG Airport Live Departures

Checking in at Hong Kong Airport

For all Hong Kong Airport Departures, both Domestic and International, you need to head to the Check-in Hall on Level 7 at Terminal 1. For counter check-in, you need to find the check-in aisle your airline is using. You can check the Hong Kong Airport official website or the monitors displaying flight information in the Check-in Hall. Check-in usually opens 2 to 3 hours before departure for most airlines.

Another option is to check in online for your flight if your airline offers that option. Alternatively, you can use a self-check-in kiosk at the airport; Terminal 1 has more than 100 smart check-in kiosks in the Check-in Hall. You can then use your airline’s baggage drop-off counters to check in your baggage.

When to arrive at Hong Kong Airport?

For international flight departures from Hong Kong Airport, it’s recommended to arrive at Terminal 1 around 3 hours in advance; this will allow enough time for all the necessary procedures, like security and passport control. For domestic departures from Hong Kong Airport, arriving 2 hours before your flight is enough.

What’s next?

After check-in and baggage drop-off, you can head towards the security control and move to the restricted area in Hong Kong Airport Departures in Terminal 1. Security control usually takes around 20 minutes, depending on the season and time of day.

Electronic and metallic items in your hand baggage or on your person should be placed in a separate tray for the security check. Your hand baggage will be inspected, and a body scan may be conducted. All liquids, aerosols, and gels in hand baggage should not exceed 100 ml and should be packed in a transparent re-sealable plastic bag with a capacity of up to 1 liter. Only one transparent plastic bag per passenger is permitted.

After security control, you will proceed to the immigration counter, where you need to have your travel documents ready. You’re then ready to head to your Departure Gate.

What to do in Departures at Hong Kong Airport?

If you have some time before your flight, there’s lots to do at Hong Kong Airport Departures. Being one of the largest passenger terminals in the world, Terminal 1 is equipped with multiple facilities to ensure a pleasant pastime. There’s a wide selection of cafes and restaurants, including Starbucks and McDonald’s, to grab a bite or something to drink. There are also multiple retail stores for some last-minute shopping, including Duty-Free. Don’t forget to check the tax-free regulations if you buy anything from the Duty-Free.

To enjoy some peace and privacy, you can visit one of the 9 airline lounges located in the Departures area. Read our Hong Kong Airport Guide to discover all the available facilities at Hong Kong International Airport Departures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Terminal 1 and 2 at Hong Kong Airport?

Terminal 2 at Hong Kong Airport features only check-in counters, mainly for low-cost airlines, and some full-service airlines and a mall. Passengers then need to move to Terminal 1 to reach their departure gate. As of 2024, Terminal 2 at Hong Kong Airport is closed due to construction.

Do I need to go through immigration for a connecting flight in Hong Kong?

Do you have to take liquids out at Hong Kong Airport?

How early should I get to Hong Kong Airport?

Maria Papakonstantinou

Maria is a seasoned travel writer and avid traveler with a knack for research and itinerary planning. Specializing in airport transport and destination guides, she blends personal experience with local insights to help make every journey seamless.