HKIA Enhances Security with Canine Unit

Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has enhanced security with a new canine unit managed by Aviation Security (AVSECO).

Once training has been completed, ten canines and their handlers will be deployed in phases to patrol the terminal and surrounding areas. They will also assume the role of airport ambassadors to welcome travellers at HKIA.

Fred Lam, Chief Executive Officer of AA, said, “The canine unit represents our continuous efforts in further enhancing airport security. The canines and their handlers will join the Contingency Response Unit set up by AVSECO last year to step up patrol in the terminal and surrounding areas. We appreciate AVSECO’s prompt actions after the decision was made last year in establishing the canine unit. But we would not be able to achieve all these without the support from the Hong Kong Police Force, and Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department, for which we are most grateful.”

The dogs will be housed within kennels that are located inside the restricted area of HKIA. The facility has been specifically designed and features individual resting blocks for each dog, grooming and quarantine facilities, and an indoor training area for daily fun and exercise.

In addition to the kennel facilities, the Airport Authority has also earmarked more outdoor space for the ACU’s canine training.

The Hong Kong Police Force and Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department have been providing support to the establishment of the unit in various aspects, including selecting canines, designing the kennel and related facilities, providing training for canines and handlers, offering temporary accommodation for canines, and more.

Jacob Cheung, Executive Director of AVSECO said, “AVSECO pioneered the introduction of an airport canine unit among aviation security companies worldwide. It is our pleasure to sign a tripartite cooperation protocol with Hong Kong Police Force and Hong Kong Customs and Excise today, which allows us to better equip the Canine Unit for performing their duties at the airport. We will continue with our efforts to deliver world-class aviation security services for the travelling public at HKIA.”

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