GBA Series | Addes Mak (IBCE 2022): Soaring across Hong Kong and Zhuhai to unearth the unique edge of two airports

“Many of life’s defining moments — whether it is studying abroad, working overseas, or visiting family and friends on the other side of the world — are inextricably linked to airports. Air travel allows us to transcend borders and time zones, connecting people, relationships, and experiences.” For Addes Mak (IBCE 2022), whose passion for aviation runs deep, the industry has not only created countless extraordinary experiences but also fuelled socio-economic growth. Now a management trainee (MT) at the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AA), Addes has worked at both Hong Kong International Airport and Zhuhai Jinwan Airport, gaining firsthand insight into the distinctive ecosystems of both locations and uncovering opportunities for mutual benefit.

From an early age, Addes knew where his ambitions lay. During high school, he took part in training programmes with local aviation companies to gain practical experiences. Understanding the critical importance of business acumen in the aviation sector, he chose to pursue the International Business & Chinese Enterprise (IBCE) programme at CUHK Business School after completing his DSE exams. “IBCE expanded my global business outlook, and I made the most of opportunities to join various training sessions and extracurricular activities. The summer internship I completed at the AA in my third year solidified my decision to build a career in aviation.” After graduation, Addes achieved his long-held dream of becoming part of Hong Kong’s aviation industry, contributing to key airport operations projects at Hong Kong International Airport.

 

Since joining the Airport Authority Hong Kong in 2022, Addes has participated in various frontline operation projects at the airport.

 

Dreams take flight: Unveiling the unique edges of Hong Kong and Zhuhai airports

Two years into his career, Addes was assigned to Zhuhai Jinwan Airport, where he contributed to passenger market development and airport expansion projects. This experience gave him a deeper appreciation of the distinct roles played by both Hong Kong and Zhuhai airports. As one of the world’s top aviation hubs, Hong Kong International Airport ranks among the leaders in passenger and cargo traffic, with over 120 airlines serving more than 200 destinations worldwide. Its unparalleled scale and global connectivity position it as a key player on the international stage. In contrast, Zhuhai Airport operates on a more modest scale, with passenger traffic currently at about one-fifth of Hong Kong International Airport’s pre-pandemic levels, and coverage extending to over 80 domestic destinations. Yet, Addes sees Zhuhai Airport as having three standout features within the Greater Bay Area (GBA) — competitive fares, higher efficiency, and Zhuhai’s rich tourism offerings — which make it a favoured choice for leisure and family travellers.

“Many might not realise that flights from Zhuhai Airport are typically more affordable compared to those from Shenzhen or Guangzhou. The airport’s smaller size, serving only domestic flights, also means a shorter walking distance to boarding gates. What really sets Zhuhai apart is its status as a renowned travel destination, with a wealth of national cultural and tourist attractions. This draws a large number of visitors from beyond Guangdong province, forming the bulk of the airport’s passenger base. Despite Zhuhai’s relatively small population of just over 2 million, Zhuhai Airport has earned a spot in the mainland’s ‘ten million passenger club’, proving its strong appeal,” he adds.

 

Zhuhai Airport has been actively improving ground transport connections and the network of city terminals in the GBA in recent years, enhancing the overall passenger experience. On the opening day of the City Terminal for Zhuhai Airport, Addes (centre, back row) posed for a photo with his colleagues in front of the terminal.

 

Hong Kong and Zhuhai airports join forces to strengthen the GBA connectivity

Addes explains that, while Zhuhai and Hong Kong airports serve different roles, their proximity creates significant potential for complementary collaboration. For example, through the “Fly-Via-Zhuhai-HK” initiative launched last year, passengers from mainland cities can fly into Zhuhai Airport, then take a dedicated coach via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge (HZMB) to the SkyPier Terminal located in the restricted area of Hong Kong International Airport. From there, they can directly proceed to their boarding gate for international flights, facilitating seamless transfers and boosting traffic between the two airports.

The pace of infrastructure development in the GBA is accelerating. Beyond the HZMB and the high-speed rail network, Addes believes that the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link (a bridge-tunnel connecting Shenzhen and Zhongshan) and the soon-to-be-completed Huangmaohai Sea-crossing Channel (the western extension of the HZMB, connecting Taishan and Zhuhai) will further reduce travel times between GBA cities, enhancing the accessibility of airports in the region. These advancements present both significant opportunities and challenges for passenger traffic business at Hong Kong and Zhuhai airports.

When discussing the broader aviation industry in mainland China, Addes is confident about its enormous potential. “I once read an article estimating that there are still a billion people in China who have yet to fly. With the GBA being one of the most dynamic urban clusters in the country, I believe there are tremendous opportunities ahead!”

 

Addes (first from right) led business partners from mainland travel agencies to experience “Fly-Via-Zhuhai-HK” to further promote the initiative.

 

Support from mentors and classmates: A steadfast journey toward his dreams

Though it has been two years since he left campus, Addes still cherishes the deep bonds he formed with his IBCE batchmates. He is especially grateful to Dr Andrew Yuen, Executive Director of the Aviation Policy and Research Centre at CUHK. “During my time at the university, Dr Yuen gave me countless opportunities to get involved in aviation-related research projects and frequently shared his industry insights with me. He even allowed me to assist in writing aviation columns, teaching materials, and books. These invaluable experiences broadened my horizons and have been instrumental in my current work.” Reflecting on his journey, Addes considers himself fortunate to have had access to the wealth of resources and learning opportunities at CUHK Business School, which allowed him to pursue his passion for the aviation industry.

 

Addes (right) remains in close contact with Dr Andrew Yuen (left) after graduation, exchanging thoughts and insights on the aviation industry.

Addes (second from left) and his batchmates supported one another throughout their four years of university, celebrating their 2022 graduation together.

 

CUHK Business School alumni are everywhere, transcending geographical and industrial boundaries. To explore more inspiring alumni stories, please click HERE.