As of Saturday, drivers from Guangdong province and Macao can drive into Hong Kong via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and leave their cars at an automated car park near Hong Kong International Airport for flight transits.

The “Park and Fly” initiative -- the first phase of the “Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles” program -- offers seamless transit experiences for Guangdong and Macao drivers using Hong Kong’s world-class aviation network and will boost regional synergy, officials said.

Under the program, Guangdong and Macao vehicles are not required to hold a Hong Kong-issued plate. After online registration, they can park their cars near the HZMB at a five-story designated parking facility with 1,800 parking spaces at present and 3,000 spaces in the long run. Then drivers can take shuttle buses to HKIA to take flights without having to go through Hong Kong immigration clearance.

The parking fee for the first three days is HK$100($12.9), and HK$50 per day thereafter.

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Currently, Guangdong drivers from Guangzhou, Jiangmen, Zhongshan and Zhuhai can create accounts to reserve parking spaces at the facility. The arrangement will extend to other Guangdong cities in batches.

Hong Kong Secretary for Transport Mable Chan said at the opening ceremony the initiative forms strong synergy with HZMB, creating huge opportunities for the aviation sector that has been further powered by HKIA’s three-runway system.

She expects further momentum to be generated by the second stage of southbound travel program that will allow vehicles from Guangdong to drive into Hong Kong’s urban areas from Dec 23.

The HKSAR government will cooperate with the hotel, catering and exhibition sectors to maximize the economic benefits brought by the program, Chan said.

Fred Lam Tin-fuk, chairman of The Airport Authority Hong Kong, said the launch of “Park and Fly” signifies the city’s commitment to regional integration.

He said that besides the high-speed railway, ferries and buses, the initiative provides a fresh option for travelers from Guangdong and Macao in bringing HKIA closer to their doorstep.

Contact the writer at williamxu@chinadailyhk.com