Hong Kong Airlines will take a huge step forward in its international expansion drive this year, with the launch of new direct services to Hong Kong from Melbourne, Australia and Lijiang, China. These two new services will be launched in December 2025 , respectively and will further expand the airline’s current efforts to increase options for traffic connections and unleash the full potential of Hong Kong International Airport, through the newly expanded three-runway system..

New Direct Flights to Melbourne: Easy Access to Australia

Hong Kong Airlines will launch its new direct service to Melbourne, Australia, on December 12, 2025, marking a significant step in the airline’s expanding presence in the Australian market. This service will operate three times per week, utilizing the airline’s Airbus A330 aircraft. Designed to accommodate both leisure and business travelers, the flexible flight schedules will allow passengers to connect seamlessly through Hong Kong to several popular destinations in the Asia-Pacific region, such as Vancouver, Bali, Tokyo, and Osaka.

Melbourne has emerged as one of Hong Kong’s key international markets, ranking as the fourth largest destination for flights from Hong Kong. With increasing demand from both business and tourism sectors, the addition of this new route will offer travelers a convenient, non-stop option between the two cities. Lorie Argus, CEO of Melbourne Airport, expressed excitement over the new service, which is expected to strengthen tourism and business links between Hong Kong and Australia. “This new direct route will further deepen the connection between Melbourne and Hong Kong, contributing to a broader, more robust air traffic flow between the two cities,” said Argus.

The introduction of the Melbourne route is part of Hong Kong Airlines’ larger effort to solidify its foothold in Australia’s competitive travel market. It follows the airline’s recent service resumption to the Gold Coast in January and the introduction of the Sydney route in June, making Hong Kong Airlines the second local carrier offering direct flights to multiple major Australian cities.

Lijiang: A New Cultural Destination for Travelers

In addition to expanding its Australian network, Hong Kong Airlines will launch a new direct route to Lijiang, a culturally rich destination in northwestern Yunnan Province, China. This service will begin on September 8, 2025, and operate three times a week using an Airbus A320 aircraft. This new route will be Hong Kong Airlines’ sole service to Lijiang, with the airline becoming the only carrier offering direct flights from Hong Kong to this ancient city.

Lijiang, designated a National Historical and Cultural City of China, has become a popular destination for tourists interested in the city’s role in the ancient Silk Road and Tea Horse Road, as well as its well-preserved historical architecture. Travelers flying from Hong Kong will benefit from easy access to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its cobblestone streets, traditional Naxi culture, and beautiful surrounding landscapes.

The new Lijiang route not only strengthens Hong Kong Airlines’ footprint in mainland China but also complements the airline’s ongoing efforts to develop its Chinese network. With the addition of Lijiang, along with previous routes to Hulunbuir and Xi’an, the airline is making it easier for travelers to explore lesser-known destinations within China, further expanding its reach in the region.

Connecting Travelers Across Regions

The strategic introduction of these two new routes will significantly enhance Hong Kong Airlines’ ability to connect travelers between regions. For passengers flying to Australia, the new Melbourne route offers easy access to a number of popular destinations within Australia and the broader Pacific region. The flexible scheduling allows for seamless connections to long-haul routes, including Vancouver, Tokyo, and Osaka.

Similarly, the Lijiang route provides a unique connection to mainland China for travelers already flying to major hubs like Sydney and Vancouver. Travelers can enjoy convenient connections at Hong Kong International Airport, a leading transit hub that links Asia with Europe, North America, and beyond.

Additionally, Hong Kong Airlines’ growing network helps travelers easily navigate Asia’s top cities and access destinations that might otherwise be difficult to reach from other regions. Whether traveling for leisure, business, or connecting to other international flights, passengers can benefit from Hong Kong Airlines’ increasing global connectivity.

Capitalizing on Hong Kong International Airport’s Expansion

The new routes to Melbourne and Lijiang come at a time when Hong Kong International Airport is undergoing a significant expansion with the completion of its third runway. This development increases the airport’s capacity, allowing for more flights and smoother transit experiences for travelers. The expanded airport infrastructure provides Hong Kong Airlines with the opportunity to introduce additional routes, connecting more cities in Asia and beyond.

Hong Kong Airlines’ move to enhance its route network reflects the airline’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a competitive international carrier, benefiting from the strategic location of Hong Kong International Airport. With increased capacity at the airport, the airline can offer more convenient options for travelers looking to explore new destinations while enjoying smooth transitions between connecting flights.

Economic Benefits for Hong Kong and Beyond

The new direct flights to Melbourne and Lijiang will bring significant economic benefits to both Hong Kong and the cities involved. For Melbourne, the introduction of direct flights will likely boost tourism and strengthen trade links, particularly in the export sector. According to Danny Pearson, Victoria’s Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs, the added flights will increase air freight capacity for Victorian exporters, allowing for a smoother flow of goods between Melbourne and Asia.

Similarly, the Lijiang route is expected to boost cultural tourism to this historical destination, attracting travelers interested in its unique heritage and scenic beauty. As one of China’s most culturally significant cities, Lijiang has become a prominent destination for travelers seeking immersive cultural experiences.

Both routes will support economic growth by enhancing air freight capacities, which will benefit industries in both Hong Kong and the destinations served. These expanded flight options will make it easier for businesses and tourists to access new markets, providing a substantial boost to both the local and international economy.

Conclusion

Hong Kong Airlines’ new routes to Melbourne and Lijiang are a significant step in the airline’s global expansion strategy, providing more options for travelers seeking to connect to both popular and emerging destinations. The addition of Melbourne strengthens the airline’s presence in the Australian market, while Lijiang offers an exciting cultural destination for those looking to explore China’s rich history.

With Hong Kong International Airport’s expanded capacity, Hong Kong Airlines is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for international travel and enhance connectivity between Asia and the rest of the world. Whether traveling for business or leisure, passengers will benefit from these new routes, providing more opportunities to explore new destinations with ease.