Cathay Pacific, renowned as one of the world’s premier airlines, is set to reinstate direct flights between Adelaide and Hong Kong, marking a pivotal revival of South Australia’s international air travel after pandemic disruptions. Beginning in November and running until March 2026, the airline will operate three weekly flights using its Airbus A350-900, capable of accommodating up to 280 passengers.
This return is crucial for re-establishing global connectivity for South Australia, following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 crisis. Before the pandemic, Cathay Pacific was an integral part of the local aviation landscape, providing direct services and even pilot training at Parafield Airport.
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas praised Cathay Pacific, acknowledging its reputation as a leading airline with extensive connections across rapidly developing regions. He noted that the restoration of flights is set to boost both outbound travel for South Australians and attract inbound tourism.
Frosti Lau, a representative from Cathay Pacific, emphasised the expanded travel opportunities that the new routes would provide, particularly to destinations such as India, the US, Canada, and across Southeast Asia. This improved access is anticipated to significantly boost the local economy, which benefited from nearly $800 million from Asian tourist expenditures in the last year alone.
Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison expressed a desire for robust global connections, highlighting the importance of not only reaching out to the world but also inviting it to explore South Australian attractions.
Cathay Pacific joins a growing roster of 12 airlines resuming international routes from Adelaide since the onset of the pandemic, with expectations of more additions in the future. Meanwhile, Adelaide Airport is enhancing its infrastructure with a $600 million investment to cater to the anticipated surge in passenger traffic.