Guide to Airlines Based at Hong Kong International Airport
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), one of the busiest and most modern airports in the world, serves as the hub for several airlines. These carriers operate a mix of domestic, regional, and international routes, connecting Hong Kong to destinations worldwide. Below is a comprehensive guide to the airlines based at HKG.
1. Cathay Pacific
Founded: 1946
Fleet Size: Over 150 aircraft
Destinations: 80+ worldwide
Alliance: oneworld
Cathay Pacific is Hong Kong's flagship carrier and one of the world's leading full-service airlines. It operates long-haul and regional flights with a fleet primarily composed of Airbus A350s and Boeing 777s. The airline is known for its premium service, world-class lounges at HKG, and extensive global network, with key routes to London, New York, Sydney, and Tokyo.
Subsidiary: Cathay Pacific Cargo
Cathay Pacific Cargo specializes in freight operations and is one of the top air cargo carriers globally. With Hong Kong being a major logistics hub, this division plays a vital role in international trade.
2. HK Express
Founded: 2004 (Rebranded as a low-cost carrier in 2013)
Fleet Size: 30+ aircraft
Destinations: 20+ across Asia
Parent Company: Cathay Pacific
HK Express is Hong Kong’s only low-cost airline, offering affordable fares to destinations across East and Southeast Asia, including Japan, South Korea, and Thailand. The airline operates a fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, with a focus on budget-conscious travelers.
3. Greater Bay Airlines (GBA)
Founded: 2020
Fleet Size: 5 aircraft (expanding)
Destinations: 10+ in Greater China and Southeast Asia
Greater Bay Airlines is a relatively new carrier based in Hong Kong, aiming to strengthen connectivity within the Greater Bay Area, which includes Hong Kong, Macau, and Guangdong Province. Operating primarily Boeing 737-800 aircraft, GBA is expanding its network to regional destinations such as Bangkok, Tokyo, and Taipei.
4. Air Hong Kong
Founded: 1986
Fleet Size: 15 aircraft
Focus: Cargo-only operations
Parent Company: Cathay Pacific (majority ownership)
Air Hong Kong is a dedicated cargo airline operating in partnership with DHL Express. It focuses on overnight express freight services within Asia, playing a crucial role in Hong Kong’s status as a global logistics hub.
5. Hong Kong Airlines
Founded: 2006
Fleet Size: 50+ aircraft
Destinations: 30+ across Asia and North America
Hong Kong Airlines is a full-service carrier operating primarily within Asia, with some long-haul routes. The airline focuses on regional flights to cities such as Bangkok, Tokyo, and Seoul, with occasional services to North America. While it has faced financial challenges in recent years, it continues to operate a fleet of Airbus A330 and A320 aircraft.
Future of Hong Kong-Based Airlines
Hong Kong’s aviation sector is recovering from the impact of COVID-19 and geopolitical changes. Cathay Pacific remains the dominant player, while budget carriers like HK Express and Greater Bay Airlines are expanding their networks. The city’s strategic location as a gateway to China and the rest of Asia ensures that these airlines will continue to play a crucial role in global air travel.
Whether you're looking for luxury, budget, or cargo services, Hong Kong International Airport hosts a diverse range of airlines to meet different travel needs.
