Hong Kong International Airport’s third runway officially began operations on Friday.

A Government Flying Service plane was the first aircraft to land on the tarmac at 8:24am. It was followed by a Cathay Pacific cargo flight from Shanghai, which touched down three minutes later.

Cathay Pacific CEO Augustus Tang said they were delighted to be the first airline to operate a commercial flight using the new third runway.

He also described the operation of the new north runway as "a milestone achievement for the Hong Kong international aviation hub".

The previous north runway has now been renamed the centre runway, and it will be temporarily closed for reconfiguration.

The reconfiguration of the airport's three runways and the building of a new passenger concourse are expected to be completed in 2024.