Willing to pay extra for Hong Kong’s Airport Express? Are there cheaper options?

A recent proposal from Hong Kong’s rail operator to increase fares has sparked concerns over whether the new cost of HK$120 (US$15) from the airport to the city centre is too expensive.

The Post has looked into the historic changes in fares and alternative options for residents and tourists travelling to and from the airport.

1. What are the latest changes to the Airport Express fee?

The Airport Express, which began service in 1998, offers a 24-minute journey spanning 35.3km (29.1 miles) from Hong Kong International Airport to Hong Kong station in Central.

The current single journey ticket for adults using an Octopus card costs HK$110 to Hong Kong station, HK$100 to Kowloon station and HK$65 to Tsing Yi.

The MTR Corporation submitted a fare adjustment proposal to the Legislative Council on Tuesday, hoping to raise the price when paying with an Octopus card to HK$120, HK$105, and HK$73 respectively for three stations, taking effect from June.

Single adult tickets to the airport without an Octopus card will cost HK$130 from Hong Kong station, HK$115 from Kowloon station, and HK$80 from Tsing Yi, representing increases of HK$15, HK$10, and HK$10, respectively.