Key facts
- Hong Kong airport's security contractor, Avseco, has deployed 20 dogs and handlers to Terminal 2.
- The canine unit enhances detection of explosives, firearms, and ammunition.
- The dogs also serve an ambassadorial role in non-restricted landside areas.
- The expansion supports increased passenger numbers and airline operations at the reopened terminal.
- The Avseco Canine Unit was established in January 2021.
Hong Kong International Airport has expanded its canine security unit to cover the newly reopened Terminal 2, deploying 20 dogs and their handlers. The Aviation Security Company (Avseco), the airport's security contractor, made the deployment to enhance security capabilities and manage increased passenger traffic.
Jacob Cheung Tat-keung, executive director of Avseco, stated that operations at Terminal 2 have been smooth despite the influx of passengers and 15 airlines moving into the facility. He noted that the deployment of dogs would be adjusted based on traffic flow between the airport's two terminals, with potential for adding more animals if necessary. Cheung also mentioned that the company hired a limited number of new staff for Terminal 2, as some employees were transferred from Terminal 1, and that all security screening facilities are being upgraded.
The Avseco Canine Unit (ACU) was established in January 2021 with support from the Airport Authority, Hong Kong Police Force, and Customs and Excise Department. The unit's primary role is to detect explosives, firearms, and ammunition, while also serving an ambassadorial function in non-restricted landside areas. Airport Authority CEO Vivian Cheung Kar-fay highlighted the significant contributions of the dogs to airport security.