Asia’s airport wars continue as Hong Kong reveals revamped Terminal 2 | CNN

Amid the constant hustle to be recognized as one of the world’s best airports, Hong Kong International has quietly opened up an expansion. It’s a small but key first step in the airport’s plan to become a bigger global aviation hub. Hong Kong International (HKG) is currently ranked the fourth best airport in the world, but it doesn’t get the same amount of shine as its neighbor and competitor in first place, Singapore’s Changi (SIN). HKG launched its upgraded Terminal 2 on Wednesday, gearing up for growing regional competition as officials seek to benefit from air traffic rerouted by the Iran war — but the event drew little fanfare from the public at home. The newly renovated and expanded 3.2 million-square-foot terminal will be powered substantially by automated technology, including bag self-drop points, smart check-in kiosks and hybrid check-in counters. One airport official claimed that passengers could “complete the check-in process in 45 seconds.” Even seasoned travelers who have been through HKG before will likely get a different experience in the new terminal. Fred Lam, the authority’s chairman, said that T2 is aimed at younger travelers. That’s likely w