Hong Kong Airlines Launches Inaugural Flight to Sydney - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

The new connection enhances travel options for business, leisure, and transit passengers between two of the Asia-Pacific region’s major economic hubs.

The first flight, HX017, departed from Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) and landed in Sydney (SYD) this morning to a traditional water cannon salute and a warm welcome ceremony. Celebratory events were held at both departure and arrival airports, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony at SYD.

At the HKIA boarding gate, distinguished guests attended the launch event, including Mr Jeff Sun, President of Hong Kong Airlines; Mr Ian McGraw, Australian Consulate-General; and representatives from Tourism Australia, Destination NSW, and the Airport Authority Hong Kong. Passengers received commemorative gifts marking the occasion.

“This new route represents a major step in our journey toward becoming a truly international airline,” said Mr Jeff Sun. “Sydney is not only a beloved destination but a key economic center in Australia. Operating with our Airbus A330 aircraft, we aim to offer a premium travel experience, featuring attentive service, fine dining, and comfortable cabins in both Business and Economy.”

Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton welcomed the new addition: “We are proud to add Hong Kong Airlines as our 52nd airline partner. This inaugural flight follows the first expansion of bilateral air rights between Australia and Hong Kong in nearly two decades—a milestone enabled by the support of the Australian Government.”

NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper highlighted the route’s economic impact: “This service strengthens our goal to boost NSW's aviation capacity by 8.5 million seats. Hong Kong is a key inbound market and this connection will help drive our visitor economy.”

Mr Wang Yu, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Sydney, called the launch “a fresh impulse for cultural and economic ties between China and Australia,” emphasizing its role in expanding people-to-people exchanges and global connectivity.

Lounge Perks for Connecting Passengers

To celebrate the launch, passengers transiting in Hong Kong between June 20 and October 31, 2025, on selected Hong Kong Airlines long-haul flights (including Vancouver, Bali, Tokyo, and others) will enjoy complimentary access to the airline’s flagship lounge Club Autus at HKIA.

Growing Global Network

The new Sydney route is part of Hong Kong Airlines’ broader expansion strategy in 2025. Other recent route developments include Vancouver, Gold Coast, and Hulunbuir, alongside increased frequencies to Maldives, Da Nang, Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Nanjing—providing greater flexibility and travel options across Asia-Pacific.

An additional new international service is set to launch in July 2025, further expanding the airline’s footprint.

Flight Schedule (All times local):

Note: Flight schedule subject to change without prior notice.

Image Credit: © Hong Kong Airlines