**HONG KONG, CHINA** – In a historic move for the aviation sector, the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) has officially appointed Vivian Kar-fay Cheung as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), a decision that took effect on April 7. This marks a significant moment, as Cheung becomes the first local talent to ascend to this top position within AAHK.

This decision received unanimous backing from the AAHK Board and the endorsement of the Hong Kong SAR Chief Executive, John Lee. Cheung's tenure follows her previous service as Chief Operating Officer since 2022 and her role as Acting CEO starting from June 2022, making her promotion the culmination of a thorough nine-month international search for the right candidate.

With over 30 years of experience in the aviation industry, Cheung has held leadership positions at Hong Kong International Airport, overseeing a broad spectrum of responsibilities from airport operations to information technology and even managing airport facilities in Mainland China. Prior to her new role, she served as Executive Director of Airport Operations (2019-2022) and was instrumental in establishing the Hong Kong International Aviation Academy in 2016.

Fred Lam, AAHK Chairman, expressed confidence in Cheung's capabilities, stating, "Vivian has a stellar career at the airport and made history by being the first home-grown CEO from within AAHK. Her lead will be crucial as we navigate the next phase of development for the airport and strive to realize our vision of transforming HKIA into an 'Airport City'—an essential growth engine for Hong Kong and the region.”

In response to her new appointment, Cheung expressed her deep honor and commitment to the role, emphasizing the challenges that lie ahead in the ever-evolving global business landscape. “I am humbled by the responsibility that awaits me. With the unwavering support from the government, the Board, our staff, and business partners, we aim to fortify HKIA’s leading status and position the Airport City as a new landmark in Asia,” she acknowledged.

Cheung boasts an impressive academic background, with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from The State University of New York and an MBA from Southern Illinois University. Additionally, she is an alumnus of the prestigious Stanford Executive Program, which adds to her robust leadership profile.

Her career also includes significant roles on various boards, where she contributes to aviation security and regional airport management initiatives. Cheung is actively engaged in community service, serving on the Town Planning Board and on the Board of Directors for Support! International Foundation. She is also a member of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council’s Infrastructure Development Advisory Committee.

As she embarks on this pivotal journey as CEO, the aviation community and stakeholders alike are eager to see how Cheung will shape the future of Hong Kong's international aviation landscape. Stay tuned for further updates on her strategic initiatives that promise to elevate HKIA's standing on the global stage!