Hong Kong is ready to welcome the world back to the world city with today’s announcement of 500,000 free flights and value-add city-wide offers as part of its ‘Hello Hong Kong’ global campaign.
Hong Kong will offer free air tickets as well as ‘Hong Kong Goodie’ visitor vouchers to entice travellers to come and experience the city’s diverse experiences.
In 2020, Airport Authority Hong Kong purchased 500,000 air tickets in advance from the territory’s carriers as a relief package for the aviation industry with the view that the tickets would go to global visitors and residents.
The city-state had some of the world’s toughest border restrictions in place until international travel to Hong Kong fully resumed in late December 2022.
Airport Authority Hong Kong Chairman Jack So said: “These tickets were bought at the worst time of the pandemic, showing our confidence in the future of Hong Kong’s aviation industry.”
“Since the relaxation of travel restrictions and quarantine requirements for inbound travellers last year, HKIA airport passenger traffic has started to pick up, especially in the last quarter.
“HKIA has always been a major international aviation hub. We are confident that passenger traffic will continue to rise.”
Hello Hong Kong campaign rollout
Airport Authority Hong Kong will distribute the free air tickets to different markets in phases through three home-based carriers – Cathay Pacific Airways, Hong Kong Express and Hong Kong Airlines – starting from March 2023.
At least one million ‘Hong Kong Goodies’ visitor consumption vouchers will also be given out, covering a complimentary welcome drink at participating bars, restaurants and hotels or a cash voucher to be redeemed in the transportation, culinary and retail sectors as well as attractions.
In addition, Hong Kong will host a year-round calendar of more than 250 events and festivals in 2023, showcasing the dynamic and diverse appeal of the city.
Highlights include the Hong Kong Marathon, Clockenflap music festival, Art Basel, the Museum Summit 2023, Hong Kong Rugby Sevens, Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival and New Year Countdown Celebrations.
Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) Chairman Dr Pang Yiu-kai said: “Hong Kong is back on the map for global travellers with more excitement to offer than ever before.”
“We are extending the biggest welcome to the world through the ‘Hello Hong Kong’ campaign, inviting friends from everywhere as they return to one of the world’s greatest tourism destinations.
“I am confident that Hong Kong’s vibrant east-meets-west culture, together with our iconic and brand-new attractions and immersive experiences, will attract travellers back for an epic, unforgettable journey.”
For more info, head to discoverhongkong.com/hkgoodies
