HK approves driverless autonomous vehicle trials at airport

The Transport Department has approved fully driverless autonomous vehicle trials on Airport Island, allowing test vehicles to operate without a backup safety operator on board for the first time.

The autonomous driving pilot programme has been running on Airport Island since late 2024. Over the past 18 months, the project has undergone continuous testing, including the introduction of a remote operation system earlier this year.

The department has now renewed the pilot licence for Baidu’s Apollo Go autonomous driving service, covering Airport Island and North Lantau, and approved unmanned testing.

The Transport Department stressed that safety remains its top priority, saying it has conducted on-site inspections and regularly reviews monthly reports submitted by the operator.

To date, the department has issued eight autonomous vehicle pilot licences.