Following Hong Kong Airlines’ entry into the Sydney market with daily flights that began last month, the carrier is set to launch three services a week between Melbourne and the east Asian city.
Starting December 12, Hong Kong Airlines services will depart Hong Kong on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and depart Melbourne on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
The thrice-weekly services will add 93,600 seats annually between the two destinations.
As well as being a major trade hub and meeting place in Asia, Hong Kong is a significant aviation hub between Australia and Europe, with additional flights to give both Australian and European business events delegates better access to events on the two continents, alongside the obvious increase in travel directly between Hong Kong and Melbourne.
“The growth in our international market shows the importance of competition and choice, which is why we are so excited to welcome Hong Kong Airlines to the mix,” said Melbourne Airport CEO, Lorie Argus.
The new flights were secured with support from the $7 million Visit Victoria Industry Partnerships Program.
“This new service will not only provide passengers a competitive and high-quality travel option but will also cater to the diverse needs of business and leisure travellers, further deepening the trade, cultural, and tourism ties between Hong Kong and Melbourne,” said Hong Kong Airlines president, Jeff Sun Jianfeng.
Qantas, Cathay Pacific and Jetstar already service the Melbourne-Hong Kong route.
In the financial year just ended, Melbourne Airport serviced 11.9 million international passengers, representing an increase of over 8.3 per cent compared to the previous financial year.
