The Government Flying Service Aviation Inspiration International Academy (GAIIA) has been established, marking Hong Kong's first aviation initiative to unite the eight universities funded by the University Grants Committee, to provide aviation professional training for young people and inspire them to serve the city with their aviation expertise.

Officiating at the inauguration ceremony today, Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung said Hong Kong’s strategic importance as an aviation gateway continues to grow as the city deepens its integration with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

He pointed out that the academy arrives at precisely the right moment, grooming dedicated professionals for maintaining Hong Kong's competitive edge, further excelling Hong Kong's public aviation service, while contributing to the broader development of the nation's aviation capabilities.

The academy connects the youth with the aviation industry through the Government Flying Service (GFS) professional resources and operational expertise. It also offers students exposure to search and rescue, emergency medical services, hill fire-fighting, law enforcement support, etc.

Over 500 teachers and students from local, Mainland and international universities joined the ceremony.

The GFS also held an open day at its Kai Tak Division today to promote National Security Education Day.

The event aims to raise public awareness of national security and deepen their understanding of GFS services, as well as its work and achievements in safeguarding national security.

More than 1,600 visitors joined the open day, including Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong and Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung.

Interactive exhibition boards, national security-themed game booths, virtual-reality and augmented-reality games, as well as a discovery zone hosted by the GAIIA, were set up to give members of the public a better understanding of the GFS' operation. 

The concluding performance featured a helicopter search-and-rescue flight demonstration, which simulated a maritime rescue operation, to illustrate emergency response efforts by the GFS during life-saving missions.