http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/financ...40903/18854182
Let me try and translate
Worst on-time performance for CX in 10 years
Only 70% flights arrive on time - PRC routes severely affected
PRC flight delays are quickly becoming a "fact of life" and the problem is spreading to Hong Kong. According to our research [the graphic suggests this information comes from CX's Annual and Interim Reports], CX has a steadily worsening record of on-time arrivals in the past 10 years, with only 70% of flights departing or arriving* with 15 minutes of scheduled time. Some pilots note with the increase in flights and congestion in PRC air corridors, delays will continue to increase.
According to international standards, flights are considered to be on time if they depart within 15 minutes of scheduled departure or arrive within 15 minutes of scheduled arrival*. According to records, CX and KA consolidated on-time performance fell 7% to 70.7% - the worst in 10 years and 20% lower than 2004 levels. The performance has consistently fell in recent years.
This year's performance noticeably worsened starting in April. According to CX World, on-time performance was 65.5% in May; if the 15 minute allowance is dropped, only 35% of flights were early or on time, meaning 65% of flights suffered from some measure of delay.
PRC routes represented a significant portion of delays - with the increase in air traffic between HK and the Mainland, the problem is spreading to HK. A retired CX pilot noted: "All airlines try to maximise the utilisation of their aircraft. If an aircraft is scheduled to fly from SH [the Chinese text does not specify SHA or PVG so I'll simply translate the term into SH] to HKG and there is a delay in PVG, HKG will be affected by domino effect". The pilot added, HKG, SZX and CAN utilise the same air corridor to SH, so if there is VIP movement or WX, congestion will ensue.
PLA exercises delay PEK and SH flights
At present, PLA controls PRC airspace, allowing only 20% for civilian use. Coupled with frequent military exercises this year, PEK and SH flights are especially vulnerable. Adding to the problem is inadequate parking at HKG and more than usual storm warnings. The pilot noted if larger equipment were used and flights reduced, the corridor will be less congested, "but frequency for passenger convenience is valued from a passenger perspective". More delays are to be expected as frequencies increase and PLA continues to restrict airspace.
Bank of Communications International airline analyst Geoffrey Cheng stated quantification of actual effect delays to airlines is difficult. Although there were instances of HX [HX234] being "occupied" in June resulting in $800 compensation per passenger, monetary compensation is rare and compensation by way of meal voucher is the norm. Delays will also result in change of aircraft and crew, which will increase outgoings.
CX responded there are numerous causes of delays including factors out of CX's control such as weather and congestion, with one factor unilaterally causing delays. The company stresses delays are a constant problem for all HK and PRC carriers. Soon-to-be-listed HX has not published similar delay statistics.
* [I think
CX uses departure, and
Flightstats uses arrival. I like Flightstat's definition better, not sure if Flightstat can go back 10 years like CX's Annual and Interim Reports]