Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) will suspend all passenger flights for 36 hours starting the evening of September 23, 2025. This measure is in preparation for the arrival of Super Typhoon Ragasa. Cathay Pacific, the airport's main airline, has announced the cancellation of over 500 flights, impacting tens of thousands of travelers.
Key Takeaways
- Hong Kong International Airport to close for 36 hours.
- Cathay Pacific will cancel more than 500 flights.
- Super Typhoon Ragasa classified with 230 km/h winds.
- This shutdown is the longest in HKIA's recent history.
- Refunds and waivers offered for affected Cathay Pacific tickets.
Unprecedented Airport Closure Expected
The upcoming 36-hour shutdown at Hong Kong International Airport marks the longest suspension in the facility's recent history. Previous typhoon-related closures were shorter, lasting 20 hours and 13 hours, respectively. This extended closure highlights the severe nature of Super Typhoon Ragasa.
Airport authorities are preparing to halt all passenger flight operations. The suspension is expected to begin at 18:00 local time on September 23, 2025, and continue until 06:00 on September 25, 2025.
Fact Check
- Duration: 36 hours of passenger flight suspension.
- Start Time: September 23, 2025, at 18:00 local time.
- End Time: September 25, 2025, at 06:00 local time.
Cathay Pacific Operations Severely Affected
Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong's flag carrier, confirmed on Monday, September 22, 2025, that it expects to cancel more than 500 flights. These cancellations will affect both arriving and departing passenger flights at HKIA.
A spokeswoman for the airline stated at a press conference,
"Starting at 18:00 tomorrow, September 23, 2025, Cathay Pacific’s passenger flights arriving at and departing from Hong Kong International Airport will cease operations until resuming during daytime hours on Thursday, September 25, 2025."She further added,
"More than 500 flights are currently expected to be cancelled."
Passenger Support Measures
To assist affected travelers, Cathay Pacific has implemented a waiver policy. The airline announced it will waive refund charges for all tickets issued on or before September 21, 2025. This policy applies to confirmed Cathay Pacific bookings for flights arriving in and departing from Hong Kong between September 23 and September 25, 2025, regardless of the fare type.
Traveler Information
Passengers with flights scheduled during the affected period should check their flight status directly with Cathay Pacific or their booking agent. It is advisable to monitor official airport and airline announcements for the latest updates.
Super Typhoon Ragasa's Path and Intensity
Super Typhoon Ragasa has already caused widespread disruption in other regions. It brought significant flooding and power outages across the Philippines and Taiwan. Thousands of people in these areas have been evacuated, and many schools and offices remain closed.
The Hong Kong Observatory has officially classified Ragasa as a super typhoon. It features sustained winds of 143 miles per hour (230 kilometers per hour) near its core. This intensity is comparable to a Category Four hurricane, indicating a high level of danger.
Weather Bureau Forecast
The Hong Kong Observatory forecasts challenging weather conditions for the city. They expect "gale to storm force winds" on September 24, 2025. The weather bureau also warned,
"The weather will be adverse with frequent heavy squally showers and significant storm surge."These conditions pose risks to infrastructure and public safety.
Community Preparations and Public Response
Residents in Hong Kong have begun making urgent preparations for the typhoon's arrival. Supermarkets have seen an increase in shoppers stocking up on food and essential supplies. Reports indicate that fresh vegetables, meat, and baked goods sold out quickly in many stores, leading to empty shelves.
Officials in Hong Kong are taking proactive measures to mitigate the typhoon's impact. Plans include stacking sandbags and installing flood barriers in coastal villages located near the city.
Public Services and Education
- The Education Bureau announced that all schools will be closed on September 23 and 24, 2025. This aims to ensure the safety of students and staff.
- The city's hospital authority confirmed that public hospitals have implemented special measures. These steps are to ensure emergency services continue without interruption during the storm.
These preparations aim to protect the public and minimize damage from the severe weather event. The community is urged to follow official guidance and remain vigilant.
