As Sassen (40) defined, networks and circuses are elementary elements of global cities, having a well-connected airport is therefore fundamental for connecting a city with the world as it allows intensive flows of information, people and products. Hong Kong has developed into an international aviation hub that holds a leading position in both passenger and cargo terms. According to Airports Council International (), HKIA ranked 10th and 1st busiest airport in the world by passenger and cargo traffic respectively. We should, of course, be proud to have such an outstanding airport as the basis of our economic success. However, other Asian cities have managed to challenge Hong Kong's leadership due to their growing passenger and cargo flows and expansion plan to increase capacity. To what extent can the third runway, as suggested by the Airport Authority of Hong Kong (AAHK), help Hong Kong withstand such fierce competition? First, an additional runway can expand the airport's capacity to meet expected high traffic demand. Facing the rise of many developing countries in Asia, especially China, HKIA's total number of passengers and cargo in 2030 will be doubled compared to 2012 (AAHK 20). Expansion into the Chinese market, which is key to building a broader network and staying ahead of competitors, also requires greater air traffic capacity. However, with the current two-runway operation, the airport will be saturated by 2020, which would lead to large economic losses without further expansion (AAHK 24). Indeed, Hong Kong boasts geographical advantages that not only constitute a major gateway to China, but are also capable of reaching half the world's population within five hours. Airbus (22) predicts that Asia will be... the focus of the paper... et al. “HKIA's Third Runway: The Key to Improving Hong Kong's Aviation Position.” Aviation Policy and Research Center. Chinese University of Hong Kong, 28 November 2007. Web. 28 November 2013.Chong, KL, M Fung et al. “HKIA's Third Runway: The Key to Improving Hong Kong's Aviation Position.” Aviation Policy and Research Center. Chinese University of Hong Kong, November 28, 2007. Web. November 28, 2013. FlightStats. “Airline and Airport Punctuality Report.” (2013). www.flightstats.com. Network. 28 November 2013.LHR Airports Limited, . “Heathrow unveils new approach to third runway.” Press release. LHR Airports Limited, 17 July 2013. Web. 28 Nov 2013.Sassen, S. “The Global City: Introducing a Concept.” Brown newspaper of world affairs. 11.2 (2005): 40. Print.