Hong Kong has implemented a system to block “undesirable” passengers, including potential asylum seekers, from flying to the city, with authorities assuring the measure will not affect residents’ freedom to travel.
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The Immigration Department said on Tuesday the Advance Passenger Information System was expected to take a year to be implemented as it required connecting with over 100 aircraft operators.
The new system requires flight operators to send passengers’ information to the department during the check-in process for flights heading to Hong Kong, as spelled out in the Immigration (Advance Passenger Information) Regulation.
The system would “instantly” process the information and provide directions to the operators if passengers were allowed to board the flights.
Those deemed “undesirable” by authorities, including potential asylum seekers, known officially as non-refoulement claimants, will receive a “no-board direction”, instructing the airlines to deny them from boarding, according to the department.