Stronger links with mainland, India to boost HK hub status

Cathay Pacific Airways has welcomed the outcome of the latest discussions between the mainland and Hong Kong governments, which further liberalises and strengthens the aviation links between Hong Kong and the mainland by signing a new memorandum of understanding.

Cathay Pacific chief executive Tony Tyler said the expansion of air services further enhanced the status of Hong Kong as the premier gateway to the mainland and as a leading international aviation hub.

This was echoed by Dragonair CEO Kenny Tang, who said the agreement would allow Dragonair to further grow its already strong connectivity and well-built network to the mainland.

Cathay also welcomed the successful conclusion of air services talks between the Hong Kong and Indian governments that will see a significant increase in passenger flights between the two places. Belly cargo capacity will also be greatly enhanced.

The new deal could allow Cathay Pacific to more than double its existing services to Delhi and Mumbai. The agreement also allows for the launch of passenger services to the new points of Chennai and Bangalore. At present, Cathay Pacific operates four flights per week to Delhi and another four flights a week to Mumbai.

"The Hong Kong government has achieved a breakthrough in terms of opening up the market for travel to and from India," said Tyler.

"We believe the agreement reached is a great one for passengers that will also boost Hong Kong's position as a leading international aviation hub by filling in what has been a gap in the otherwise comprehensive network of routes from Hong Kong International Airport.

"Cathay Pacific has been committed to the Indian market for more than two decades, launching scheduled passenger services to Mumbai in 1982 and Delhi in 2001. In recent years we have seen a significant rise in demand to and from India, driven by the rapid growth in the country's economy, and we are ready and willing to increase the number of flights we operate and destinations we serve."