Hong Kong's leading airline, Cathay Pacific, Tuesday received the 100th aircraft of its fleet in France, a landmark not only for the airline but also for the 60th anniversary of Hong Kong's civil aviation industry.

The Chief Secretary for Administration, Rafael Hui, Tuesday attended the delivery ceremony of Cathay Pacific Airways' 100th aircraft in France.

Before boarding Cathay Pacific's new aircraft in Toulouse, Hui said, "The year 2006 is an important year for Hong Kong aviation. With the emphasis worldwide on speed and connectivity, a good aviation network supported by an efficient airport infrastructure is critical to the success of any economy."

Hong Kong air transportation started in 1946 with only one plane. In 60 years, Cathay Pacific has reached a fleet of 100 and has been repeatedly rated the World's Best Airline by various world-renowned organizations.

Hui spoke highly of the efforts Cathay Pacific has made to become one of the best airlines in the world. However, he said, the future was filled with challenges because Hong Kong's status as an aviation hub was facing keen competition from the emergence of new airports with large capacity in the region.

He said that to stay ahead, Hong Kong would continue to expand and upgrade the facilities, and further enhance the operational efficiency to provide better services to the traveling public and the business community.

(Xinhua News Agency August 30, 2006)