The Hong Kong Aviation Club (HKAC) is one of the few places in Hong Kong where private pilots can train, rent aircraft, and socialise with fellow aviation enthusiasts. Located at Shek Kong Airfield in the New Territories, the club operates under a government lease and provides a range of services from recreational flying to full Private Pilot Licence (PPL) training. This article examines the club's history, membership structure, fleet, training programmes, costs, and its role within Hong Kong's broader general aviation community.
History and Background of HKAC
The Hong Kong Aviation Club traces its origins to the early 20th century. The club was originally founded in 1921 as the Hong Kong Flying Club, making it one of the oldest aviation clubs in Asia. Its early years were centred on the then-Kai Tak airfield, where members flew light aircraft for recreation and sport. During the Second World War, operations ceased, and the club's assets were destroyed. After the war, the club was revived and eventually relocated to Shek Kong Airfield in the 1950s, where it has remained ever since.
Shek Kong Airfield itself was originally built by the British military as a Royal Air Force station. After the handover of Hong Kong to China in 1997, the airfield came under the control of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), but the Hong Kong government retained a lease agreement that allows the Hong Kong Aviation Club to continue operating from a portion of the airfield. This arrangement is unique: HKAC is the only civilian flying club in Hong Kong that operates from a military airfield. The club's continued presence at Shek Kong is subject to periodic renewal of the lease, and any changes in military use could affect its long-term viability.
Today, HKAC is a non-profit organisation registered as a society under Hong Kong law. It is governed by a committee elected by its members. The club's mission is to promote aviation in Hong Kong, provide affordable flight training, and foster a community of pilots and aviation enthusiasts.
Location and Facilities
HKAC is situated at Shek Kong Airfield, located approximately 25 kilometres northwest of Hong Kong's city centre, near the town of Kam Tin in the New Territories. The airfield sits in a valley surrounded by hills, with a single asphalt runway oriented roughly east-west. The runway length is approximately 1,600 metres (5,250 feet), which is sufficient for light single-engine aircraft and some twin-engine types.
The club occupies a two-storey clubhouse building at the edge of the airfield. Facilities include:
- A reception and administrative office
- A lounge and bar area for members
- A restaurant serving meals and snacks (open to members and their guests)
- Briefing rooms for ground school and pre-flight planning
- A maintenance hangar for the club's aircraft fleet
- Parking for members' cars (limited spaces, often fully reserved on weekends)
The clubhouse also houses a small aviation library and a display of historical photographs and memorabilia. The overall atmosphere is informal and clubby, with a focus on social interaction among members.
Membership Types and Fees
HKAC operates a membership system. There are several categories of membership, each with different privileges and fee structures. As of 2025, the following are the main membership types:
Full Flying Member
This is the primary membership for individuals who wish to fly the club's aircraft. Full flying members can rent aircraft, book flight training, and use all club facilities. To become a full flying member, one must either hold a valid PPL or be enrolled in the club's flight training programme. The entrance fee for a full flying member is approximately HK$60,000 (one-time payment). Monthly subscriptions are around HK$800. There is also an annual levy of about HK$1,200.
Social Member
Social membership is for individuals who are interested in aviation but do not intend to fly. Social members can use the clubhouse, restaurant, and bar, and can attend club events. They cannot rent aircraft or receive flight instruction. The entrance fee for social membership is approximately HK$20,000, with monthly subscriptions of about HK$400.
Junior Member
Junior membership is available for persons aged 12 to 17. It is designed to encourage young people to take an interest in aviation. Junior members can use the clubhouse and participate in youth programmes but cannot fly solo. The entrance fee is reduced, and monthly subscriptions are lower (around HK$200). Junior members can upgrade to full flying membership upon reaching age 18.
Corporate Member
Companies can purchase corporate memberships, which allow a designated representative to enjoy flying privileges. Fees are higher than individual memberships, typically starting at HK$100,000 entrance fee plus monthly subscriptions.
All membership fees are subject to change and should be confirmed directly with the club. The club also charges a one-time application fee (non-refundable) of approximately HK$2,000 for all new members.
Fleet and Aircraft Rental
HKAC operates a small fleet of light aircraft, primarily used for training and recreational flying. As of early 2025, the fleet includes:
- Cessna 172 Skyhawk (four-seat, single-engine), the club's primary training aircraft. HKAC has three Cessna 172s, all with Garmin G1000 glass cockpits. Rental rate for members: approximately HK$2,200 per hour wet (including fuel and oil).
- Cessna 152 (two-seat, single-engine), used for initial training and ab-initio flying. One aircraft in the fleet. Rental rate: approximately HK$1,800 per hour wet.
- Piper PA-28 Archer (four-seat, single-engine), one aircraft, used for advanced training and cross-country flights. Rental rate: approximately HK$2,400 per hour wet.
All aircraft are maintained by the club's in-house engineering team, which holds a Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department (CAD) approved maintenance organisation certificate. The club also has a small hangar for storage and maintenance. Members can book aircraft via an online scheduling system, typically up to 30 days in advance. Peak times (weekends and public holidays) are heavily booked, and members often need to plan weeks ahead.
Flight Training Programmes
HKAC is one of the few organisations in Hong Kong that offers full PPL training leading to a Hong Kong Private Pilot Licence (Aeroplane). The training is conducted in accordance with the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department's requirements, which are based on the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.
Private Pilot Licence (PPL) Course
The PPL course at HKAC consists of a minimum of 45 hours of flight time (including at least 25 hours dual instruction and 10 hours solo flight), plus ground school covering subjects such as air law, navigation, meteorology, aircraft technical knowledge, and human performance. The total cost for the PPL course at HKAC is estimated at approximately HK$180,000 to HK$220,000, depending on the student's progress and number of hours required. This includes club membership fees, aircraft rental, instructor fees, and exam fees. For a detailed breakdown, see the realistic cost of a PPL in Hong Kong.
Students must also obtain a Class 2 Medical Certificate before flying solo. The club can assist in arranging medical examinations with a designated aviation medical examiner.
Other Training
HKAC also offers:
- Night rating (additional 5 hours flight training, approximately HK$15,000)
- Instrument rating (limited, usually referred to external providers)
- Twin-engine rating (if aircraft available)
- Tailwheel endorsement (if aircraft available)
- Biennial flight reviews (BFR) for existing licence holders
The club does not offer Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) training directly, but some members have used HKAC for building hours toward a CPL obtained overseas.
Instructors
HKAC employs a small team of flight instructors, most of whom are part-time. All instructors hold a Hong Kong Flight Instructor Rating and have extensive flying experience. The student-to-instructor ratio is generally low, often one-on-one, which allows for personalised training. However, because instructors are part-time, scheduling can be inconsistent, and students may need to be flexible.
Ground School and Self-Study
HKAC conducts ground school classes for PPL students, typically in the evenings or on weekends. The ground school covers the nine subjects required for the Hong Kong PPL written exams: Air Law, Navigation, Meteorology, Aircraft Technical Knowledge (General), Aircraft Technical Knowledge (Airframe/Engine), Human Performance & Limitations, Radio Telephony, Flight Performance & Planning, and Operational Procedures. The club provides study materials and past exam papers. Many students also supplement their learning with online ground school courses and self-study tips before ground school.
The written exams are conducted by the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department at its office in Wan Chai. Students must pass all nine subjects within a 24-month period to obtain the PPL. The pass rate at HKAC is reportedly high, but no official statistics are publicly available.
Social and Community Aspects
Beyond flight training, HKAC serves as a social hub for Hong Kong's general aviation community. The club organises regular events, including:
- Monthly dinner gatherings
- Fly-outs to nearby airports (e.g., Macau, Zhuhai, or even further afield in Southeast Asia, subject to customs and immigration clearance)
- Guest lectures by experienced pilots or industry professionals
- Annual general meeting and election of committee members
The club also has a small bar and restaurant, which is popular among members on weekend afternoons. The atmosphere is described as friendly and welcoming, though some newcomers may find the social circle somewhat closed initially.
Costs and Financial Considerations
Flying in Hong Kong is expensive, and HKAC is no exception. The table below summarises typical costs for a new member pursuing a PPL at HKAC (2025 estimates):
- Entrance fee (full flying member): HK$60,000
- Monthly subscription (12 months): HK$9,600 (HK$800 x 12)
- Annual levy: HK$1,200
- Application fee: HK$2,000
- Aircraft rental (45 hours minimum): HK$99,000 (at average HK$2,200/hr)
- Instructor fees (25 hours dual): HK$50,000 (at HK$2,000/hr approx)
- Ground school fees: HK$8,000
- Exam fees (CAD): HK$3,000
- Medical certificate: HK$2,500
- Miscellaneous (charts, logbook, headset): HK$5,000
- Total estimated: HK$240,300
This estimate is on the lower end; many students require more than 45 hours, pushing the total to HK$280,000 or more. For a comparison of costs with other training options, see cost comparison: fixed-wing vs helicopter. Financing options are limited, but some members have used personal savings or loans. See financing your flight training for more details.
Comparison with Other Flight Training Options in Hong Kong
HKAC is not the only place to learn to fly in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Government's complete guide to learning to fly and general aviation in Hong Kong and the region outlines several alternatives. The main competitors are:
- Hong Kong Flight Training Centre (HKFTC), operates at Hong Kong International Airport (Chek Lap Kok) using Cessna 172s. It is a commercial flight school, not a club. Costs are similar but may be slightly higher. HKFTC is more accessible by public transport.
- Overseas training, Many Hong Kong residents choose to do their PPL abroad (e.g., Australia, New Zealand, Canada, United States) where costs are significantly lower (sometimes half the price) and weather is more favourable. However, they must then convert their licence to a Hong Kong licence, which involves additional exams and checks.
- Macau Aviation Club, Located just across the Pearl River Delta, this club offers training at Macau International Airport. It is an option for those who do not mind crossing the border.
HKAC's main advantages are its club atmosphere, lower membership fees compared to commercial schools, and the ability to socialise with other pilots. Its main disadvantages are the remote location (Shek Kong is difficult to reach without a car), limited aircraft availability, and the uncertainty of the lease agreement with the PLA.
Regulatory and Operational Challenges
HKAC operates under a Special Permit issued by the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department. Because Shek Kong Airfield is a military airfield, civilian operations are subject to restrictions. For example, flying is only permitted during daylight hours, and aircraft must follow specific arrival and departure routes to avoid military activities. The club cannot offer instrument approach procedures, and all flights are conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR).
The lease agreement between the Hong Kong government and the PLA is periodically renewed. Any change in the military's requirements could force the club to relocate or cease operations. As of 2025, the lease has been extended, but the long-term future remains uncertain. This uncertainty has deterred some potential members from joining.
Additionally, Hong Kong's airspace is congested, with limited areas for training. Most training flights are conducted within a designated training area near the airfield, or on cross-country routes to Macau or other nearby points. Students must also contend with the busy airspace around Hong Kong International Airport, which requires careful coordination with Air Traffic Control.
How to Join HKAC
Prospective members can apply by submitting an application form available on the club's website (www.hkaviationclub.com.hk) or by visiting the clubhouse in person. The application process includes:
- Complete the membership application form.
- Provide a copy of your Hong Kong Identity Card or passport.
- Provide two passport-sized photographs.
- Pay the application fee and entrance fee.
- Attend an interview with the membership committee (for full flying members).
- Receive approval and pay the first month's subscription.
For those who already hold a PPL, the club will require proof of licence and a recent medical certificate. For beginners, the club will arrange an introductory flight and a meeting with a flight instructor.
It is advisable to visit the club on a weekend afternoon to get a feel for the atmosphere and speak with existing members. The club's restaurant is open to non-members for lunch, so one can visit without committing to membership.
Career Pathways from HKAC
While HKAC itself does not offer cadet programmes or direct airline employment, many of its members have used the club as a stepping stone to a career in aviation. Some have gone on to become flight instructors (see instructor rating opportunities), while others have built hours and gained experience before applying to airline cadet programmes such as those offered by Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Airlines, or other carriers in Asia (see cadet programmes in Asia). The club also provides a network of contacts within the industry, which can be valuable for job hunting (see aviation jobs in Hong Kong).
For those aiming for a commercial pilot career, it is important to note that the PPL obtained at HKAC is only the first step. The full pathway to a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) typically requires a minimum of 200 hours total flight time, plus additional training and examinations. Many HKAC members complete their PPL at the club and then pursue CPL training overseas, often in the United States or Australia, where costs are lower and training can be completed more quickly.
Conclusion
The Hong Kong Aviation Club occupies a unique and cherished position in Hong Kong's general aviation scene. It offers a community-oriented environment for learning to fly, renting aircraft, and connecting with fellow aviators. However, it is not without challenges: high costs, limited aircraft availability, a remote location, and an uncertain lease agreement with the PLA. For those who are committed to flying and value the club atmosphere, HKAC can be an excellent choice. For others, alternative training options in Hong Kong or abroad may be more suitable. Prospective members should carefully evaluate their goals, budget, and schedule before joining, and should also read the eligibility requirements for Hong Kong and time commitment for a PPL to plan accordingly.
Related articles
- The Complete Guide to Learning to Fly and General Aviation in Hong Kong and the Region
- Flight Schools in Hong Kong
- Realistic Cost of a PPL in Hong Kong
- Choosing Fixed-Wing vs Helicopter
- Cadet Programmes in Asia
- HK CAD Licensing Process