Hong Kong Airlines announced it will resume direct flights between Hong Kong and the Gold Coast, Australia, beginning January 17, 2025. The seasonal service, operating four times a week for five weeks during the Chinese Lunar New Year period, will offer approximately 6,000 seats on A330 wide-body aircraft.
“We are delighted to be the first Hong Kong carrier to bring back this highly anticipated Australian route for our passengers,” said Hong Kong Airlines Chairman Jeff Sun. “This route launch will mark our first step back into the long-haul market as we are gradually introducing more aircraft to support the expansion of our route network.”
The airline is also exploring a return to the North American market, with potential routes to Vancouver, Toronto, Los Angeles, and Seattle under consideration.
Queensland officials welcomed the news, emphasizing the importance of the Chinese market to tourism in the region.
“China has always been a critical visitor market for the Gold Coast and Queensland more broadly, so reconnecting to Hong Kong marks a positive step forward in our international recovery journey,” said Queensland Airports Limited Chief Executive Officer Amelia Evans.
Queensland Minister for Tourism and Sport Michael Healy MP added, “Gold Coast Airport’s first connection with Hong Kong in six years opens up South-East Queensland to even more Asian visitors, who we know love Queensland’s great lifestyle and world-class holiday experiences.”
The service is expected to benefit both tourism and business ties between the two regions.
“Tourism is in our city’s DNA so we look forward to welcoming visitors via Hong Kong Airlines back to the Gold Coast to experience everything we have to offer,” said City of Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate.
Experience Gold Coast CEO John Warn said the new service would help bolster international visitation as the city continues to rebuild its tourism sector.
Hong Kong Airlines will operate the route four times a week, with flights departing from Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) at 22:00 and arriving at Gold Coast Airport (OOL) at 08:55 the following day. Return flights will depart OOL at 10:25 and arrive at HKG at 17:20.
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