Direct Flights from Cairns to Hong Kong Now Live: What Travelers Need to Know!

In a much-anticipated move, Cathay Pacific has officially launched its seasonal flights connecting Cairns with Hong Kong, a development that marks a crucial milestone in reconnecting Tropical North Queensland to one of Asia's busiest aviation hubs. This exciting service will operate three times a week until March 29, 2025, making it the first direct link between the region and Hong Kong since early 2020.

The inaugural flight, CX147, touched down at Cairns Airport shortly before 10:30 AM on December 17, celebrated with gifts for passengers and a vibrant lion dance performance to welcome travelers. "Just over a year ago, a delegation from Tropical North Queensland met with Cathay Pacific in Hong Kong to discuss the way forward for this exciting return," remarked Richard Barker, CEO of Cairns Airport. “Seeing Cathay Pacific back in our skies is a fantastic step toward revitalizing our long-standing partnership.”

The introduction of these flights will provide 27,000 extra seats just in time for the holiday season, catering to travelers planning overseas trips during Christmas and summer vacations. Additionally, it offers more connectivity for the influx of international visitors expected to celebrate the upcoming Year of the Snake in Tropical North Queensland, which is set for 2025.

Flight Schedule and Aircraft Info:

The service will be run using an Airbus A330-300, equipped with 28 business class flatbeds in a 1-2-1 layout and 265 economy seats, though it's worth noting that there will be no premium economy cabin available on this older aircraft.

Here's the flight schedule: - **CX146**: Departs Cairns at 12:00 PM, arriving in Hong Kong at 5:15 PM. - **CX147**: Departs Hong Kong at 1:05 AM, landing in Cairns at 10:30 AM.

Significance of the Route:

Beyond providing a direct flight to Hong Kong, this route opens up seamless onward connections to major cities like London, Paris, New York, and Los Angeles, eliminating the need for travelers to connect via Brisbane or Sydney.

Tourism Minister Andrew Powell expressed enthusiasm about the launch, stating it will greatly benefit the region as tourism operators anticipate a robust summer holiday season. "The return of Cathay Pacific comes at a crucial time, particularly after Tropical Cyclone Jasper affected last Christmas," he noted. "Visitors from Asia, the UK, and Europe can fly directly to Cairns and be exploring the Great Barrier Reef or the Kuranda Railway within hours of landing."

Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ) have played a pivotal role in this endeavor, working collaboratively with Cathay Pacific and local partners to promote the new service in the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Mainland China. TEQ Group Executive Ollie Philpot hailed the launch as a significant breakthrough for the tourism industry.

Looking Ahead:

While this service currently operates seasonally, local industry leaders remain optimistic about its future. Garry Porter from Cairns Airport mentioned that if demand is strong, they will explore more permanent arrangements with Cathay Pacific. “The success of these flights truly lies in our community's hands,” he said.

For travel enthusiasts and frequent flyers, the return of Cathay Pacific to Cairns is more than just a welcomed service; it is the start of easier international travel for locals and a gateway for new tourism opportunities in the region. While the seasonal flights only run until March, their success could open the door to continued or expanded services in the future.

*Don’t miss your chance to explore Tropical North Queensland—your adventure awaits just a flight away!*