Hong Kong Airlines Expands Global Reach with New Direct Routes to Melbourne and Lijiang
Direct Flights to Melbourne Strengthen Australia – Hong Kong Ties
Starting December 12, Hong Kong Airlines will begin operating a new direct service between Hong Kong and Melbourne, three times weekly. Enabled by expanded air traffic rights, the route uses Airbus A330 aircraft to connect travelers between two fast-growing international markets.
Melbourne Airport, now welcoming its 39th international airline, will gain over 93,000 additional seats annually through this new route alone. CEO Lorie Argus welcomed the service, citing increased passenger choice and stronger links to one of Asia’s largest aviation hubs.
Demand for flights between Melbourne and Hong Kong remains high, especially among business and tourism sectors seeking greater flexibility and capacity. The flexible schedule allows seamless onward connections through Hong Kong International Airport to destinations like Bali, Vancouver, Tokyo, and Osaka.
Hong Kong Airlines President Jeff Sun called 2025 a milestone year in the airline’s growing strategy for international transformation. This new service follows successful Australian expansions, including Gold Coast resumption in January and the Sydney route launch in June.
As the second local carrier serving major Australian cities, Hong Kong Airlines continues investing in market presence and international partnerships. The new route demonstrates strong government collaboration and leverages Hong Kong Airport’s three-runway expansion for global connectivity.
Lijiang Route Highlights Hong Kong Airlines’ Focus on Cultural Tourism
Launching September 8, a new direct route will connect Hong Kong and Lijiang, a historic city in China’s Yunnan Province. The route will operate three times weekly with Airbus A320 aircraft, offering travellers convenient access to this culturally rich destination.
Lijiang, known for its ancient Silk Road connections, features well-preserved architecture and deep cultural heritage popular among global tourists. Hong Kong Airlines will be the only local carrier providing direct service between Hong Kong and Lijiang’s UNESCO-recognized historic center.
The new route is part of a broader plan to expand Hong Kong Airlines’ footprint across mainland China’s emerging tourism markets. Following recent launches to Xi’an and Hulunbuir, the Lijiang service marks the airline’s third new mainland destination this year.
The route also supports long-haul travellers by offering smooth connections to Sydney, Vancouver, and other popular destinations via Hong Kong. By linking lesser-known Chinese cities with global travel networks, Hong Kong Airlines expands its appeal to culture-driven international travelers.
The airline hopes to strengthen inbound cultural tourism by connecting international visitors directly to China’s lesser-explored historic cities. This expansion reflects the airline’s ambition to serve a more diversified market while maintaining high service standards and reliable connections.
Enhanced Infrastructure Fuels Global Ambitions
Recent enhancements at Hong Kong International Airport, including a new third runway, boost flight capacity and passenger handling efficiency. The upgraded infrastructure enables Hong Kong Airlines to expand its global reach and connect more cities across Asia and beyond.
Executives said the additional capacity will allow for new destinations, faster connections, and a smoother experience for international travellers. The expanded airport system plays a critical role in supporting the airline’s network growth and ongoing operational efficiency improvements.
Hong Kong Airlines intends to maximise its use of the new runway system by opening more strategic and high-demand international routes. With better facilities in place, passengers can expect shorter layovers and more convenient transfers between connecting flights at the hub.
These developments position Hong Kong as a leading aviation gateway linking North America, Asia, and emerging markets like inland China. The airport’s evolution supports regional development goals while giving travelers broader access to Hong Kong Airlines’ expanding route map.
As international competition intensifies, infrastructure investments ensure that Hong Kong Airlines remains competitive and globally relevant. This strong foundation enables more reliable scheduling, increased flight frequency, and a seamless travel experience across multiple continents.
Economic Growth and Connectivity Benefits
New direct flights to Melbourne and Lijiang bring major economic and connectivity gains for Hong Kong and its partners. Melbourne’s freight exporters benefit from added air cargo capacity, while local businesses gain easier access to Asian markets.
Tourism and trade links between Hong Kong and Melbourne will deepen, supporting jobs and cultural exchange in both regions. In Lijiang, increased flight access is expected to drive tourism and stimulate the local economy through cultural exploration.
Both routes boost international travel demand, improve logistics, and enhance Hong Kong’s role as a global transit hub. These services support regional recovery, create jobs, and encourage long-term investment in aviation infrastructure.