The Transport Department today approved the expansion of an autonomous vehicle (AV) trial in North Lantau, with fully driverless tests on Airport Island being given the green light.

In February, the department approved AV trial routes on Airport Island, with monitoring to be conducted at a remote control centre and by backup drivers inside the vehicles.

Commissioner for Transport Winnie Tse told at a media session this morning that these trials have so far met requirements regarding safety, stability, accuracy and smoothness of operation.

Having examined the test reports and conducted multiple site inspections, she said, the department is satisfied with the AVs' safety performance to date.

During the trials, clear labels must be displayed on all pilot AVs for identification by other road users. Additional labels on a vehicle's body will indicate that a fully driverless test is in progress.

The department said interested organisations or enterprises are welcome to submit applications for an AV pilot licence.