
Hong Kong Airlines Sets Sights on Competitive Melbourne Route
2025-06-07
Author: Ting
Hong Kong Airlines Launches Direct Flights to Melbourne
In an exciting move for travelers, Hong Kong Airlines is gearing up to introduce a direct service from Hong Kong to Melbourne, Australia. This new route will add much-needed competition to the current dominance of Qantas and Cathay Pacific, making air travel between these two vibrant cities more versatile for passengers.
The airline has already secured the necessary traffic rights and is expected to unveil specifics of the flight schedule later this year. The launch is part of Hong Kong Airlines' broader strategy to expand its services Down Under, coinciding with their debut at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport, Australia's busiest international gateway.
What to Expect from the New Route
As competition heats up, the Hong Kong to Melbourne corridor, traditionally served by Cathay Pacific and Qantas, is set to benefit travelers. Hong Kong Airlines plans to operate this new route with its fleet of eleven Airbus A330s, configured in a comfortable two-class layout that accommodates between 285 and 303 passengers.
Jeff Sun, the airline's president, has hinted at potential fleet expansion to further support its international growth. Currently, Hong Kong Airlines operates long-haul routes to Sydney and Vancouver, along with seasonal services to the Gold Coast and Male, making Melbourne its third Australian destination.
An Alternative for Australian Travelers
Founded in 2006 to provide an alternative to Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Airlines is a subsidiary of the HNA Group, one of China’s largest aviation conglomerates. While onboard the A330s, passengers might notice modest amenities, like fewer USB ports and smaller in-flight entertainment screens. However, business class travelers will appreciate the comfort of lie-flat seats.
This launch marks the first time an international carrier has entered the Melbourne to Hong Kong route since Virgin Australia's departure in 2020. Frequent flyers enrolled in the Virgin Australia Velocity Frequent Flyer program can look forward to benefits on Hong Kong Airlines flights, such as priority boarding and increased baggage allowances, although lounge access and points redemption are not included.
Flight Duration and International Network
Once operational, flights between Hong Kong and Melbourne are expected to take approximately nine hours and five minutes heading south, with the return journey taking about nine hours and 20 minutes.
Hong Kong Airlines boasts a diverse fleet with three aircraft types, including 17 Airbus A320-200s, three A321-200s, and eleven A330-300s, catering to both short and long-haul travel. Its international network is extensive, featuring destinations across Mainland China, Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia, alongside occasional charter services.
With these developments, Hong Kong Airlines is clearly positioning itself as a strong competitor in the international travel market, aiming to win the hearts of travelers in Hong Kong and beyond.