Cathay Pacific launches direct flights connecting Hong Kong with Urumqi

Home
»
Stories
»
2025
»
April

GLOBAL INDUSTRY NEWS

Global Industry News

Cathay Pacific launches direct flights connecting Hong Kong with Urumqi

Policy

Mandy Ng Director Service Delivery | Cathay Pacific

By Sky Industry News

Apr 26, 2025

Cathay Pacific is set to launch a new non-stop passenger service between Hong Kong and Urumqi. The airline marked the occasion with a cocktail reception at Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong on April 25, 2025. The event was hosted by Cathay Group CEO Ronald Lam and attended by notable guests, including Mable Chan, Secretary for Transport and Logistics of the Hong Kong SAR Government.

The service will begin on April 28, 2025, expanding Cathay Group's reach in the Chinese Mainland to 20 destinations. This four-times-weekly return service connects passengers from Hong Kong to an important Belt and Road hub in Northwestern China.

Mable Chan highlighted the significance of this route: “In May of last year, the Central Government expanded the multiple-entry Individual Visit Scheme (IVS) by adding eight new cities, including Urumqi. The launch of this new direct flight today reflects our commitment to fulfilling the Central Government’s support and expectations for Hong Kong."

Get the Newsletter

Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News

By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Chan also noted that Urumqi serves as a conduit beyond passenger services: “We hope Cathay will help elevate the entire air cargo industry by leveraging this new gateway to establish a new cargo corridor.”

Ronald Lam expressed enthusiasm about adding Urumqi to their network: “With its vibrant blend of cultural experiences and stunning landscapes, Urumqi is the latest addition to our expanding Chinese Mainland network."

The flights will be operated using Airbus A330-300 aircraft with both Business and Economy cabins. The schedule includes departures from Hong Kong at 01:30 local time arriving in Urumqi at 07:00 on Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Cathay Group continues its global expansion with plans for additional destinations throughout 2025.