Australia’s aviation sector has kicked off 2016 on a high, with a brand new airline commencing services to the country in the first two weeks of the year.
Hong Kong Airlines became the country’s newest international carrier when it launched its inaugural three-times triangular service, Hong Kong-Gold Coast-Cairns.
The new services touched down last week to operate every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday.
Utilising the airline’s A330 aircraft, the service introduces 292 seats, including 32 business class seats, per flight on the route.
The airline’s Commercial Director, Mr. Li Dianchun, said pre-sales have been strong with an “overwhelming response among travellers since tickets became available for purchase”.
“We expect Australia will become a popular destination with our travellers who would like to enjoy the beautiful weather, stunning coastline and exciting activities.”
Mr. Li Dianchun, Hong Kong Airlines Commercial Director
He continued, explaining that he expects the service to also strengthen cultural, tourism and business ties between Australia and Hong Kong.
Flight HX015 departs Hong Kong at 9.20pm every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday to arrive in the Gold Coast the next day at 8.30am.
HX016 leaves the Gold Coast for Cairns at 10.30am on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday to arrive at 12.24pm. The return service to Hong Kong then leaves Cairns at 1.55pm the same day to arrive at 7.10pm.
To commemorate the airline’s inaugural service, all passengers scheduled to depart the inaugural flight from Hong Kong, were presented with a commemorative certificate and boarding pass envelope.
Prior to boarding, passengers were greeted with Australian-themed decorations and models carrying surfboards, emulating the liveliness and energetic vibe of the Gold Coast and Cairns.
On arrival at Gold Coast Airport, all passengers, flight crew and representatives of Hong Kong Airlines received a warm along with a traditional water cannon salute followed by a ribbon and cake cutting ceremony to commemorate the inaugural flight.