Patrick Healy, chair of Cathay Pacific Airways, said on Sunday that he hopes the new-term legislature will continue to back policies that cement Hong Kong’s leading role in the global aviation sector.

He also praised the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government’s rapid rescue and relief operations following the Tai Po blaze — one of the city’s deadliest fires in decades, that has so far claimed 159 lives — saying follow-up investigations and diligence are extremely important to prevent such a tragedy’s recurrence.

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After casting his vote at the polling station at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Healy told China Daily that the voting process was “extremely smooth and well-organized”, with a lot of volunteers nearby to offer assistance.

“I’m delighted to have a role to play in expressing my democratic views,” said Healy.

As the head of the city’s flag carrier, Healy emphasized the importance of legislative support in advancing Hong Kong’s pursuit of becoming a global aviation hub, a strategic goal that has been energized in the last few years by the Three-Runway System at Hong Kong International Airport.

“We're reliant on the support of the legislature to optimize the future of the international aviation hub here in Hong Kong,” he added.

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Healy also commented on the rescue and relief operations of the fatal fire in Tai Po, which has tugged the heartstrings of many people, including him.

“I think the government is doing all that it can. There has been a real outpouring of support, a lot of compassion, but also a lot of financial support made available to the people who have been impacted by this tragedy.”

Looking ahead, Healy said it is extremely important for the city to carry out investigations with diligence to learn from the tragedy and take necessary action to prevent its recurrence.

Ida Xue contributed to the story.