More shops and catering outlets are included among major enhancements just unveiled for Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).

Terminal 1 is being expanded, providing more HKIA retail stores and food outlets landside in the Arrivals Hall, as well as more than 40 new check-in counters and two extra baggage-reclaim carousels.

New features in the expanded East Hall of Terminal 1 will include a roof garden and a children’s play area spanning two levels. There will also be a dedicated recreational zone featuring travel technologies, plus an outdoor garden.

In the restricted area, the main food halls will be refurbished plus anchor retail outlets for liquor, cosmetics and accessories will open for business soon, including experiential concepts such as interactive zones and a whisky bar.

“The enhancement projects for Terminal 1, together with the three-runway system in 2024, will increase the airport’s handling capacity as well as bring a fresh look and feel,” says Airport Authority Hong Kong (AA) CEO Fred Lam.

An extension will provide about 1400 extra parking spaces, as well as premises for the Hong Kong International Aviation Academy and HKIA Preschool. Other staff-related amenities will include a community centre, a sports hall and fitness centre, and staff canteens.

The AA is also planning a weather-proof footbridge connecting Terminal 1 and the North Satellite Concourse. The “Sky Bridge” will reduce passengers’ travelling time and the need for them to use shuttle buses.

As well as an observation deck, the 200m-long footbridge will have catering outlets in towers on both sides.

The enhancement projects will be completed in phases up until 2020, with the budget for the main projects about HK$7 billion (US$897.3 million).