This year marks the 43rd anniversary of the Airport Security Unit (ASU). Although the worldwide battle against the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has taken a heavy toll on air traffic operations, the ASU has remained steadfast in its determination to safeguard Hong Kong International Airport. While rising to the challenge, the ASU has also welcomed a breath of fresh air—the first-ever female Officer-in-Charge of the Unit to lead the team of more than 100 officers to continue with missions at the forefront of counter-terrorism.

Having assumed the role recently, Chief Inspector Hung said, “I used to live in Kowloon City when I was a child. I grew up listening to the sound of aeroplanes taking off and landing at Kai Tak Airport, and I also witnessed its historic relocation. Given my affection for the airport, when I learnt about the recruitment of the next Officer-in-Charge of the ASU last year, I applied for the position in a heartbeat.”

When taking the fitness test, Chief Inspector Hung had to lie on her back and lift a dumbbell weighing 150lbs, which far exceeded her body weight. When she was in training, she was even asked to lift dumbbells for three hours straight, which amounted to more than 1 000 lifts. In the end, she overcame challenge after challenge, including emotional stress tests, to become the first-ever female Officer-in-Charge of the ASU. “Besides having high expectations for our individual performance, as qualified ASU members, we attach even greater importance to team spirit. It definitely takes continuous partnership with my teammates to develop trust and rapport between us. As mentioned in the TV drama ‘Airport Security Unit’ that is currently broadcast, we all hope to be able to watch each other’s back.”

Chief Inspector Hung admitted that being a female head of the ASU can be quite a challenge. However, she believes fighting terrorism is a responsibility that transcends positions and genders, as all police officers can also do their part for the cause. Striving to turn pressure into motivation, Chief Inspector Hung will tap into females’ innate and acute senses when giving out directives, in a bid to help this already excellent team carry out anti-terrorism missions with even greater agility. She said, “I hope to continue the ASU’s sterling traditions that have been spanning more than four decades, to help ensure Hong Kong International Airport remains one of the safest airports in the world.”

Musings on TV drama — Question 1
After joining the ASU, do police officers still need fitness training all the time?

When patrolling the airport, ASU officers need to be in gear weighing over 40lbs to perform tasks related to aspects such as airport security and counter-terrorism. In order to stay fit and physically prepared, ASU officers train for about an hour each day when they go off duty.

Musings on TV drama — Question 2
In the drama, every ASU member is clad in impeccable uniform from head to toe when they patrol the airport. Does each officer have tailor-made uniforms?

Hong Kong International Airport is the world’s first gateway to the city. Therefore, all ASU members always make sure their gear, uniform and appearance are in tip-top condition. We hope all visitors have a great first impression of the Hong Kong Police Force when they set foot in the city, and that they can feel safe upon arrival.