To address the capacity expansion of the Hong Kong International Airport's three-runway system amid increasing competition among international aviation hubs, Hong Kong Airlines is seizing the opportunity to enhance its operational capabilities. Recently, the airline has reinstated several long-haul routes, including to Sydney, Australia, and Vancouver, Canada, while also launching a series of service upgrades.
Although there is no clear timeline for the full resumption of all long-haul routes, Chairman Yan Bo noted that with changing travel patterns, especially due to the high-speed rail and highways connecting to the mainland, the airline will adapt its network based on market demand.
Yesterday, Hong Kong Airlines announced various service upgrades, including new baggage policies, in-flight dining improvements, online check-in, and enhancements to airport lounge facilities. Yan believes these upgrades will complement the airline's expanding route network, particularly for major long-haul flights.
President Jeff Sun Jianfeng highlighted that Hong Kong is well-positioned to attract transfer passengers, with the U.S. being one of the potential markets for expanded long-haul flights, although this will depend on the evolving political and economic landscape.
Increasing Frequency on Certain Long-Haul Routes
Yan revealed that the airline is considering increasing the frequency of some long-haul routes to daily flights and plans to add new mainland destinations within the year to strengthen its regional network.
Additionally, the SAR government and the Airport Authority Hong Kong are working to enhance cooperation with airports in other cities within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).
Sun pointed out that all of the airline's routes have significant appeal for passengers from mainland cities in GBA. Furthermore, the Airport has terminals in seven mainland cities, and there are ongoing multimodal transportation collaborations between air and ground, as well as air and sea transport. This cooperation is expected to become closer, facilitating easier travel for passengers.
In light of increased competition on routes to Japan, Yan stated that more choices for travelers are beneficial. Due to previously low booking volumes on Japanese flights, Hong Kong Airlines merged some flights to optimize resources in preparation for the summer peak season, including aircraft maintenance, resulting in fewer flights in May and June compared to April.
Despite a recent prediction from Japan's earthquake investigation committee indicating an 80% chance of a major earthquake in the Nankai Trough over the next 30 years, Yan noted that Hong Kong residents continue to travel abroad. Currently, passenger numbers on Japanese routes have not been significantly affected, and he remains optimistic about travel during the summer, with plans to maintain or even increase flight frequencies.
As the airline expands its network and updates its fleet, Yan indicated that new aircraft will be introduced based on route and operational needs. Discussions with suppliers are underway, and the possibility of acquiring domestically produced aircraft is not ruled out.
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