contours for a three-runway layout at design capacity. With newer aircraft producing less noise and the introduction of new flight paths and flight procedures made possible by the three-runway system, the preliminary NEF contours projected for Option 2 do not differ significantly from the 1998 NEF contours. More detailed NEF contour forecasts will be carried out in subsequent studies under the statutory EIA process. Air Quality Our consultants have carried out preliminary studies on the possible air quality impact of the air traffic movements (also known as flight movements) projected for 2030 under Option 2 and the results indicate that it would not exceed the prevailing Air Quality Objectives (AQOs) for all air sensitive receivers around HKIA. They also show that our operations make a relatively small contribution to the overall air quality of Hong Kong. We understand that the Government is currently reviewing Hong Kong’s AQOs and taking into account the outcome of the Government’s review, a detailed air quality impact assessment will be conducted under the statutory EIA process. has covered potential environmental issues involved and has explored, albeit on a preliminary basis, possible mitigation and compensatory measures. Option 1 does not involve any reclamation. Hence, comparatively speaking, Option 2 will potentially create more environmental issues than Option 1. We are committed to addressing the environmental concerns associated with both Options. For example, in the course of the statutory EIA process, we will fully investigate the environmental issues in question to ensure that practical and feasible plans are advanced and their residual environmental impacts are minimised. 7 COMPARISON BETWEEN THE TWO OPTIONS Summary of Environmental Considerations It is worth noting that the preliminary environmental assessment undertaken at this stage for Option 2 HKIA MASTER PLAN 2030 55