This led to the quarantining of his close work contacts by Hong Kong’s Centre for Health Protection. All quarantined staff subsequently tested negative, have now been released from the quarantine centre and have returned home.
The manpower shortage resulting from the quarantine affected around 20% of flights but – despite the additional impact on all airport operations of two typhoons on 9 and 13 October – the situation was progressively brought under control through increased overtime, re-scheduling of some flights, re-deployment of other ramp-trained Hactl staff and subcontracting of some duties to other operators.
Less than 5% of Hactl’s workforce were affected, and over 80% of flights were handled within normal timeframes.
In a statement, the company said: "Hactl’s terminal operations were not affected and there was no truth in some reports of two to three day delays.
"Hactl apologises to all who have been inconvenienced by this situation, which was beyond its control. It thanks customers for their patience, understanding and cooperation, and its staff for their customary hard work and dedication which have successfully mitigated the impact on its service levels."
