Ep 6. Building Hong Kong's Airport

Building Hong Kong's Airport is the sixth episode of the first season of the documentary series Extreme Engineering, which premiered on April 14, 2003, on the Discovery Channel. The episode showcases the breathtaking project of building Hong Kong International Airport, one of the busiest and most technologically advanced airports in the world.

The episode begins by providing an overview of the ambitious project, which had to overcome numerous challenges, including geographical limitations, environmental concerns, and tight schedules. The construction of the airport required massive dredging, land reclamation, and the creation of an artificial island that took nearly six years to complete. The episode highlights the key players in the project and the crucial decision-making process that led to the successful completion of the airport.

The host, Danny Forster, takes the viewers on a journey to explore the fascinating engineering marvels that make Hong Kong International Airport a world-class facility. He first visits the baggage handling system, which processes an average of 160,000 bags per day and is one of the largest and most complex in the world. Forster explains the intricate machinery and software that ensures each bag reaches its destination on time, without any errors.

Next, Forster investigates the Tsing Ma Bridge, which connects the airport to the city of Hong Kong. The bridge spans over 2.2 miles and is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world. Forster provides fascinating insights into the bridge's engineering and construction that involved more than 20,000 workers and required the use of numerous technological innovations.

The episode also explores the unique terminal design of the airport, which mimics the shape of a Chinese dragon. Forster showcases the state-of-the-art facilities and amenities that cater to passengers' needs, such as luxurious lounges, high-end restaurants, and world-class duty-free shopping.

Forster then moves on to the air traffic control tower, which stands at 70 stories high and is one of the tallest in the world. He interviews air traffic controllers and reveals the complex operations that ensure the safety and efficiency of flights in and out of the airport.

Lastly, the episode highlights the crucial role of sustainability in the construction and operation of the airport. Forster explores the environmental mitigation measures that were put in place, such as building a habitat for rare pink dolphins and using advanced wastewater treatment systems. He also investigates the airport's innovative waste management system, which aims to achieve zero landfill waste.

In conclusion, Building Hong Kong's Airport offers an in-depth, fascinating look at the engineering feats behind the creation of one of the world's most iconic airports. The episode showcases the challenges, innovations, and achievements of the project, providing insights into the cutting-edge technologies and practices that make modern airports possible.