Hong Kong Airlines Takes Off to Australia's Gold Coast Bringing Popular Travel Option for the Chinese New Year

HONG KONG,Jan. 18, 2025/PRNewswire/ -- Hong Kong Airlines celebrated the first flight betweenHong KongandAustralia'sGold Coast, marking the airline's return to become the first local carrier to reinstate this highly anticipated route after several years.

Operating seasonally from 17 January to15 February 2025, the service covers four flights per week for a four-week period encompassing the Chinese Lunar New Year holiday. The route is operated by an A330 wide-body aircraft, offering both business and economy-class seating.

To commemorate the relaunch, a ceremony was held at the boarding gate before the inaugural flight took off. Hong Kong Airlines President MrJeff Sun, representatives ofGold Coastand Queensland Airports, as well as senior representatives of the Airport Authority Hong Kong attended the event, interacted with passengers, and presented bespoke gifts to share the joy.

First flight HX015 toGold Coastarriving at the Gold Coast Airport at8:55 amlocal time. Passengers are welcomed by a lively traditional lion dance performance arranged by the Gold Coast Airport.

Hong Kong Airlines Chairman MrYan Bostated,"We are delighted to have a full flight of passengers on our first voyage, with around 300 travellers coming to experienceQueensland'swarm climate and exciting tourist activities. We also look forward to welcoming visitors from theGold Coastand theQueenslandregion toHong Kongduring our operation period, inviting them to immerse in the vibrant atmosphere of the Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations and enjoy authenticHong Kongcuisine."

Hong Kong Airlines President and Captain Mr Sun joined the cockpit crew to pilot the first flight, he stated,"As one ofHong Kong'sleading full-service airlines, Hong Kong Airlines is committed to providing high-quality, comprehensive services, including flexible baggage allowance options, complimentary inflight meals, and comfortable seats, to ensure that every passenger can enjoy a pleasant journey."

Queensland Airports Limited CEO MsAmelia Evanssaid,"We're delighted to welcome Hong Kong Airlines'guests to our beautiful city ofGold Coastand can't wait for them to experience the best of an Australian summer across the whole region. We hope this connection withHong Kongwill pave the way for longer-term services across our key markets inHong Kong, the Greater Bay Area, and Mainland China."

Queensland Tourism MinisterAndrew Powellstated,"This influx fromHong Kongover the Lunar New Year period is an exciting opportunity forGold Coast, supporting local jobs and the economy."

Tourism and Events Queensland's (TEQ) Ollie Philpot helped mark the milestone arrival. He commented,"TEQ has worked closely with Hong Kong Airlines and partners including Experience Gold Coast to put theGold Coastup in lights inHong Kongand Mainland China to drive demand for these flights and the destination."

ActingGold CoastMayorDonna Gatescelebrated the return of this important service after six years and its positive contribution to the region.

Experience Gold Coast CEOJohn Warnsaid the resumption of Hong Kong Airlines'services marks a significant step forward for theGold Coast'stourism industry.

"Chinais a hugely important source market for theGold Coast, so we are thrilled to see Hong Kong Airlines'services lift off again," 

The resumption of theGold Coastroute marks Hong Kong Airlines'first step back into the long-haul market. The company is progressively expanding its fleet to support a phased expansion of its network, including potential new routes withinAustraliaand a return to the North American market. Additionally, beyondVancouver, the airline is also actively exploring the possibility of expanding services toLos Angeles,Seattle, andTorontoto offer passengers a wider range of international travel options.

Hong Kong Airlines flight schedule* betweenHong KongandGold Coastis as follows (All times local): 

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About Hong Kong Airlines

Established in 2006, Hong Kong Airlines is a full-service airline firmly rooted inHong Kong. The airline flies to 30 destinations across theAsia Pacific, and currently maintains interline and codeshares with multiple airline partners and ferry service providers. Hong Kong Airlines operates an all-Airbus fleet. It has been awarded the internationally acclaimed four-star rating from Skytrax since 2011. For more information, please visithongkongairlines.comor our social media channels onLinkedIn,Twitter,InstagramandFacebook.

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SOURCE Hong Kong Airlines