Hong Kong Airlines marked a significant milestone to expanding its network during the weekend with the introduction of the inaugural daily service connecting Hong Kong and Sydney. The flight, HX017, touched down on June 21, 2025, at Sydney Airport at 9:30 AM, a historical occasion which was witnessed by airline management, government leaders, and tourism heads from Hong Kong and NSW. Commanded by Hong Kong Airlines President Jeff Sun, the flight demonstrates the strategic value the route enjoys for the airline.

The new service is a major addition to Sydney Airport’s growing portfolio of international connections and plays a critical role in strengthening the ties between Australia and Hong Kong. The launch of this daily flight increases the seat capacity on the Hong Kong-Sydney corridor by nearly 20%, a significant boost for the region’s aviation infrastructure. It is expected to play a vital role in enhancing tourism, trade, and business opportunities between the two cities and beyond.

Government Collaboration and Economic Impact

The success of this new route comes after years of careful planning and collaboration between government agencies and industry partners. Destination NSW, alongside Sydney Airport, worked closely with Hong Kong Airlines to secure the new service. NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism, Steve Kamper, expressed his pride in the successful negotiation of the agreement, emphasizing Hong Kong as a priority international market for the state.

“Hong Kong has always been a vital source of visitors to NSW,” Minister Kamper said. “In 2024 alone, incoming travelers from Hong Kong contributed $309 million to the state’s visitor economy. With the launch of this daily service, we are continuing to build stronger connections that will help drive further economic growth.”

The expansion of bilateral air traffic rights between Australia and Hong Kong is a key component of the deal. This is the first such expansion in nearly two decades, allowing Hong Kong Airlines to offer increased service capacity and ensuring better connectivity between the two destinations. The impact is far-reaching, with economic benefits expected to total $120 million annually from this route alone. This is a win not just for tourism but also for trade and investment between the two regions.

Hong Kong Airlines’ Role in the New Era of Aviation

Hong Kong Airlines, established in 2006, has grown from a regional carrier to a globally recognized international airline. This new Sydney service marks a pivotal step in the airline’s strategic transformation. As President Jeff Sun remarked, Sydney is one of Australia’s most vital economic hubs and a top destination for both leisure and business travelers. We are excited to be expanding our network to this important market, offering more travel options for passengers in both cities.

Hong Kong Airlines will operate the route using its state-of-the-art Airbus A330-300 aircraft, which boasts 292 seats: 32 in Business Class and 260 in Economy Class. The airline’s Airbus A330 offers modern amenities, including in-flight entertainment, comfortable seating arrangements, and a selection of fine dining options for long-haul passengers. The airline’s commitment to delivering high-quality service extends beyond just the flight, with a focus on a passenger-centric experience, ensuring travelers have a seamless journey from departure to arrival.

Strengthening Ties and Future Prospects

The historic connection between Sydney and Hong Kong stretches back 75 years, beginning in 1949, and has since become one of Sydney Airport’s busiest routes. In 2024 alone, more than 850,000 passengers flew between the two cities, making Hong Kong Sydney’s third busiest city route after Singapore and Auckland. The addition of Hong Kong Airlines’ daily service is expected to increase this traffic, driving even more economic activity and providing additional options for travelers looking to connect between Asia and Australia.

The NSW Government’s aviation strategy aims to expand the state’s capacity by 8.5 million seats, and the new Hong Kong route is a crucial component of that plan. “This route is part of a broader strategy to increase international connectivity for NSW,” said Minister Kamper. “We are focused on unlocking new international markets and expanding the capacity of our aviation infrastructure to drive economic growth.”

The Impact on Tourism

Tourism is one of the main sectors expected to benefit from the new service. The Hong Kong-Sydney route will provide an additional influx of travelers, both leisure and business, helping boost local economies in Sydney and other regional NSW destinations. The tourism sector in NSW continues to recover strongly post-pandemic, and the introduction of new international flights is expected to catalyze further growth.

Hong Kong Airlines is not just providing an essential route for travelers but is also helping to increase the exposure of Australia’s tourism offerings, which range from world-class beaches and natural wonders to its vibrant arts and culture scene. Destination NSW will work with Hong Kong Airlines to promote Sydney and regional NSW as key destinations for Hong Kong travelers, encouraging longer stays and greater exploration across the state.

Conclusion: A New Era of Travel

The arrival of Hong Kong Airlines’ daily service from Hong Kong to Sydney represents more than just a new flight route it marks a turning point in aviation relations between Australia and Hong Kong. The expanded air traffic rights and increased flight capacity will bring tangible benefits to both regions, supporting trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.

As the airline industry continues to evolve, the success of Hong Kong Airlines’ new Sydney service exemplifies the importance of strengthening international connections and ensuring that travelers have access to diverse and convenient flight options. With continued collaboration between governments, tourism bodies, and the airline industry, the future of global travel looks bright, and the strengthening of ties between Sydney and Hong Kong will pave the way for even more opportunities for cooperation and growth.

(Source:Destination NSW, Sydney Airport, NSW Government, Hong Kong Airlines)