Delay in Outbound Air Mail Service
Recent months have witnessed an upsurge of some 30% in outbound air mail compared to corresponding period last year. In addition, with the impact of global financial crisis, airlines have cut back on their flights. These have resulted in the overall supply of air cargo space lagging far behind demand. Hence delays by one to two weeks have been caused to outbound air mail for a number of destinations including Brazil, Russia, the US and Europe since late October. Hongkong Post is most concerned about the situation. With our efforts to secure extra air cargo space from all possible sources and arrange chartered flights, as well as to liaise with other postal administrations to dispatch air mail via postal transfer, the situation regarding the conveyance of outbound air mail has noticeably improved. Presently the outbound air mail service may still experience a delay of three to five days, but hopefully will resume normal after Christmas.
http://www.hongkongpost.com/eng/misc/specialnotice/20091204a/index.htm

Important Notes: Hongkong Post Service Update
As advised by Hongkong Post, due to increased shipping activities, service delay is to be expected. This problem became more acute two weeks ago causing delay to outbound mails to Brazil, Russia and a number of destinations in the United States and Europe by one to two weeks over normal delivery standards. The delay was related to insufficient cargo space and Hong Kong Post has been working closely with carriers to obtain additional space including chartered flights as well as looking for other alternatives. Hongkong Post counter staff will inform customers who tender postings to affected countries about the possible delay. As for the situation on posting volume and availability of cargo space develops, notice will be put up in the post offices informing customers about the changing situation. The Hongkong Post anticipates that the situation will be alleviated in about two to three weeks’ time. In view of the close proximity to Christmas, it is possible that Christmas mails will be affected and customers are encouraged to arrange early posting of their Christmas mail to ensure that the airmail items are delivered before Christmas. Please refer to “Last dates to post Christmas airmail 2009” for the last dates of posting for this year's Christmas airmail.
http://www2.ebay.com/aw/hk/200911.shtml#2009-11-30164907