Saturday, March 8, 2025

Cathay Pacific is set to revolutionize China’s air travel with its latest direct Hong Kong-Urumqi route, launching April 28, 2025.

This game-changing expansion strengthens Hong Kong’s role as a global aviation hub while fueling China’s domestic tourism boom by enhancing connectivity to Xinjiang’s capital, Urumqi.

The four-times-weekly service, operated by Airbus A330-300, is part of Cathay Pacific’s ambitious goal to expand its network to 100 destinations by the end of 2025.

According to Hong Kong International Airport’s official announcements, the Hong Kong-Urumqi route is a key addition to China’s Belt and Road aviation strategy.

It offers seamless travel options between Northwestern China and major international markets, attracting business and leisure travelers alike.

Cathay Pacific’s Chief Customer and Commercial Officer, Lavinia Lau, highlighted the airline’s commitment to strengthening China’s air links:

“Urumqi is an exciting new addition to our network, directly linking Hong Kong with an important Belt and Road hub in Northwestern China.

As Hong Kong’s home airline, we are dedicated to providing customers with even more flight choices between Hong Kong, mainland China, and beyond.”

The launch of direct flights to Urumqi comes at a critical time when China is experiencing a domestic tourism surge, fueled by enhanced air travel access.

According to China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism, domestic tourism in 2025 is expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels, with travelers seeking new destinations like Xinjiang’s cultural and natural wonders.

Tourism officials in Xinjiang anticipate significant economic benefits from Cathay Pacific’s new flight route, encouraging regional tourism development and boosting travel demand.

Beyond Urumqi, Cathay Pacific’s 2025 expansion plan includes launching direct flights to:

Meanwhile, HK Express, Cathay’s low-cost subsidiary, has also introduced new regional routes across Asia, targeting Japan, Vietnam, and other emerging travel hotspots.

With Cathay Pacific’s direct flights, travelers can experience the rich culture, history, and landscapes of Xinjiang with greater ease than ever before.

The airline’s Hong Kong-Urumqi connection is set to be a key driver in China’s domestic tourism boom, making Urumqi a premier travel destination for both local and international visitors.