Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan on Tuesday called on the Airport Authority to further diversify services and expand its network to mark the centenary of Hong Kong's airport development.

A special exhibition was also launched to celebrate the occasion, with photographs showcasing milestones in the 100 years of Hong Kong's airport development and the switch in airport operations from Kai Tak to Chek Lap Kok forming an essential chapter in that storied history.

Speaking at the event, Chan noted that the airport has seen a tremendous transformation over the years, with its network now linking up with 210 global destinations and Chek Lap Kok seeing over 53.1 million passengers each year.

But she noted that the airport has room to go "beyond merely being a transportation hub" – with its blueprint, unveiled this year, laying out a plan to become a premier travel landmark by developing the Skytopia project.

Under the blueprint released in January, the airport aims to invest HK$100 billion to integrate commercial activities, culture, art trading, entertainment and leisure.

When completed, Skytopia will have a 500-berth marina for yachts, the city's largest water recreation area, a fresh market for high-end produce from around the world, as well as a cluster of offices, shops, hotels, and leisure facilities.

"I really hope that Hong Kong International Airport will go beyond being just a traditional transportation hub," Chan said.

"I hope it can be a place where residents and tourists can go to – not just to catch a flight but also to enjoy the arts or eat fresh seafood and other delicious cuisines, or attend concerts or even take trips on yachts.

"Such things would make the airport a truly diversified international aviation hub," she added, noting that the airport shall also look into expanding its air network with emerging market destinations under the Belt and Road Initiative as well as those in South Asia and South America.

Her remarks also came as a new coach hall at the revamped second terminal of the Hong Kong International Airport is set to open next Tuesday, along with new shops and restaurants.

Chan noted that the T2 terminal is expected to fully open in the second quarter of next year, following a phased opening of other facilities later on.

Airport Authority chief executive Vivian Cheung said the authority is gearing up to host the 30th edition of "Routes World", a large-scale global aviation convention, next week.

During the three-day "Routes World 2025", which will take place in Hong Kong for the first time, some 2,500 delegates from about 250 airlines around the world will gather in the SAR to discuss latest developments in the aviation sector, strengthening Hong Kong's role as a leading aviation centre.

"[It's the first time officials from] all 90 global airports gather here, with representatives from over 115 countries worldwide. It's like an Olympic here... This signifies the international aviation industry's recognition of Hong Kong as a major aviation hub," Cheung said.

"We are confident that Hong Kong will continue to lead as a global aviation hub to serve passenger and business from around the world, as well as setting new standards for connectivity, sustainability and innovation," she added.

The convention will take place between September 24 and 26.