Direct flights between Hong Kong and Melbourne officially began Saturday, marking a significant expansion in Hong Kong Airlines’ international network. The inaugural service strengthens air connectivity between Asia and Australia while supporting tourism, education, and trade flows between the two regions.
The first flight, operating under flight number HX013, landed at Melbourne Airport on Saturday morning. Airport authorities welcomed the aircraft with a ceremonial water cannon salute, signaling the formal launch of the new route. Consequently, Melbourne became the airline’s second scheduled destination in Australia after Sydney.
Hong Kong Airlines launched its Sydney service earlier this year, and therefore the Melbourne addition reflects accelerated expansion plans. Notably, the carrier now stands as only the second Hong Kong-based airline in nearly two decades to operate multiple Australian routes.
The new service operates using Airbus A330 wide-body aircraft, offering enhanced passenger comfort and cargo capacity. Moreover, the airline will operate the route three times per week, providing travelers with consistent scheduling options.
Hong Kong Airlines President Jeff Sun described the launch as a major milestone for the company’s long-term growth strategy. He said the new service would deepen exchanges between Hong Kong and Melbourne while expanding regional connectivity. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of linking Australia with the Greater Bay Area and broader Asian markets through direct flights.
Melbourne Airport executives also highlighted the route’s economic and cultural importance. Jim Parashos, Melbourne Airport’s chief of aviation, welcomed Hong Kong Airlines as the airport’s forty-first carrier. Additionally, he noted that the service creates new opportunities for passengers, exporters, and students traveling between the two regions.
Parashos stressed that Melbourne hosts a large Chinese community and a significant international student population. Therefore, improved connectivity supports cultural exchange, educational mobility, and family travel demand. He added that Asia remains one of Melbourne Airport’s fastest-growing aviation markets.
Chinese Consul-General to Melbourne Fang Xinwen also welcomed the launch and linked it to broader travel facilitation policies. He pointed out that China introduced a unilateral visa-free policy for Australian passport holders last year. Moreover, authorities extended the policy through the end of next year.
Fang said the combination of visa-free access and direct flights would significantly simplify travel for Australian visitors to China. As a result, officials hope the new route will encourage increased tourism, business engagement, and people-to-people exchanges.
Industry analysts view the Melbourne service as part of a broader post-pandemic recovery in Asia-Pacific aviation. Airlines across the region continue restoring capacity while prioritizing strategic long-haul routes. Consequently, direct flights remain a critical tool for rebuilding international travel demand.
Looking ahead, Hong Kong Airlines indicated it would continue evaluating additional long-haul destinations. Executives said route performance and passenger demand would guide future expansion decisions. For now, the Melbourne launch reinforces the carrier’s commitment to strengthening its presence in the Australian market.
