URA revives Kai Tak Airport memories with AR technology

The Urban Renewal Authority (URA) is exploring the use of augmented reality (AR) technology on the building facades or streets in Kowloon City to replicate the unique scene of low-flying airplanes, reviving collective memories of Kai Tak Airport.

URA’s managing director Wai Chi Sing said on his blog on Sunday (13 April) that the initiative aligns with the 100th year of old Kai Tak Airport. The authority will develop the new “3B” system, consisting of the “built environment”, “business environment” and “local bonding”, to strengthen Kowloon City’s local character, foster a new urban landscape, and boost foot traffic and the economy.

In terms of “built environment”, the URA will highlight the unique elements of Kowloon City, including the old Kai Tak Airport, Thailand, and Chaozhou, through various street beautification and area enhancement techniques. This aims to elevate the region's diverse vibrancy and attractiveness. 

According to Wai, the URA has appointed a local artist group to design shop fronts, specialising in 3D wall paintings, AR murals, staircase art, and installations. Over the next months, they will interview shop operators, gather design preferences, and aim to finish the work by the year's end pending the shop owner approval.

Additionally, the URA is considering using AR technology to recreate the unique scene of planes flying low over Kowloon City, possibly themed around the old Kai Tak Airport or airplanes. This initiative aims to bring back nostalgic memories for the older residents and introduce the historical Kai Tak Airport to citizens and tourists through technology, providing an immersive experience as if they were there in person.

After boosting foot traffic and vitality, the attention will shift towards promoting the business environment and fostering business opportunities for merchants. The URA has engaged in discussions with the Hong Kong Small and Medium Enterprises Association to extend the "Backstreet Alliance" initiative, which was previously launched in the Central and Sheung Wan areas, to Kowloon City.

The URA will also collaborate with local businesses to offer consumer reward programmes, aiming to enhance the tourism experience and encourage spending among residents and visitors, ultimately boosting the local economy.

When it comes to local bonding, the URA aims to strengthen community ties and foster warmth among residents. To celebrate Kowloon City's annual Songkran Festival, the URA collaborated with local organisations for a two-day art workshop. Thai families, students, and seniors created a 90-meter painting themed around the festival. Displayed at Tak Ku Ling Road Rest Garden, this artwork aims to enhance cohesion within the Thai community, offering citizens and tourists a chance to celebrate the Thai New Year together and understand its history.

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