The Government Flying Service (GFS) of Hong Kong successfully concluded its inaugural International Symposium on Emergency Response and Aeromedical Services (ISERAS) on June 18, 2026, after a three-day event that brought together more than 230 policymakers, experts, academics, and industry representatives from over 70 institutions and accredited organizations. Participants hailed from Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland, Australia, the United Kingdom, Austria, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, among others, converging to foster closer cooperation in emergency linkage, resource sharing, and professional training across regions.
The symposium featured plenary sessions, panel discussions, technical visits, and live demonstrations conducted jointly by the GFS and various government emergency units. A key outcome was the signing of several memoranda of understanding aimed at deepening collaboration between the GFS and the Chinese Mainland, as well as domestic and international emergency, aviation, and medical institutions. These agreements are expected to enhance joint response capabilities and knowledge exchange.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Under Secretary for Security Michael Cheuk emphasized the evolving challenges posed by climate change. "A shift to proactive prevention, continuous enhancement of international and cross-regional collaboration, and enhanced experience and insight sharing among stakeholders are key to rising to new and complex challenges," Cheuk said, highlighting that the collaborative spirit of ISERAS would forge stronger partnerships and strengthen emergency response capabilities globally.
Wang Lei, Director General of the Rescue and Salvage Bureau of the Ministry of Transport of the People's Republic of China (CRS), delivered a keynote presentation on air rescue capabilities and strategic development in the South China Sea, underscoring the importance of regional cooperation in maritime emergency response.
The symposium concluded with an interdepartmental counter-terrorism drill and exchange session involving the GFS, the Hong Kong Police Force, and the Hong Kong Fire Services Department. This exercise showcased Hong Kong's professional capabilities in responding to terrorist attacks, demonstrating rapid deployment and coordination among disciplined services. Captain Eddie Liu, Controller of the GFS, noted that beyond search and rescue and aeromedical services, the GFS plays a crucial role in maintaining internal security. "In emergencies such as terrorist attacks, the GFS would make rapid deployment to assist the disciplined services in conducting air assault, offering all-round support to the HKSAR Government's overall counter-terrorism efforts," he said.
Since its establishment in 1993, the GFS has been at the forefront of 24/7 search-and-rescue and emergency aeromedical operations. The ISERAS aims to build a transnational pool of professional expertise, reinforcing Hong Kong's status as an aviation hub for emergency response in Asia. For more information about Hong Kong's branding and initiatives, visit Brand Hong Kong.
