Hong Kong Airlines has resumed its direct flights to North America, reconnecting Hong Kong International Airport with Vancouver International Airport. The first flight took off on January 18, marking the airline’s return to this route after a hiatus. This development was celebrated at the boarding gate with members of the Airport Authority Hong Kong and senior management from the airline present.
Mr. Yan Bo, Chairman of Hong Kong Airlines, expressed enthusiasm about the reinstatement of this service: “We are delighted to reinstate the Vancouver service, offering passengers more flight choices. Vancouver was Hong Kong Airlines’ first North American destination, which was first launched in June 2017, and has always been popular. Resuming this route not only marks our official return to the North American market but also demonstrates the progress of our strategic transformation from a regional to an international airline earlier this year and boosting our confidence in expanding our global route network coverage.”
The twice-weekly service between Hong Kong and Vancouver operates on Tuesdays and Saturdays for outbound flights (HX80) and Wednesdays and Sundays for return flights (HX81).
Hong Kong Airlines was established by Robert Yip 23 years ago under China Rich Holdings. Initially named CR Airways, it began operations with a Sikorsky S-76C+ helicopter before transitioning into fixed-wing aircraft operations. In 2006, Hainan Airlines acquired a significant stake in the company, leading to its rebranding as Hong Kong Airlines Ltd.
The airline offers two cabin classes: Economy and Business. Economy class provides complimentary snacks and beverages along with baggage allowances, while Business class includes additional amenities such as hot meals, access to VIP lounges, priority check-in, and boarding.
Hong Kong Airlines also accommodates passengers with special needs by providing specialist travel assistance and inflight wheelchairs across various aircraft types.
From its base at Hong Kong International Airport, the airline serves numerous destinations across Asia, Oceania, and North America. Unique routes include services to Saipan in Northern Mariana Islands and Koror in Palau.
The current fleet consists entirely of Airbus aircraft totaling 35 planes including A320s for short-haul routes and A330s for long-haul flights.
