Cathay Pacific launches direct Hong Kong-Urumqi flights April 28, 2025

Cathay Pacific is set to launch direct flights between Hong Kong and Urumqi, starting April 28, 2025, significantly expanding its network in mainland China to 20 destinations. The four-times-weekly service will be operated by Airbus A330-300 aircraft and is part of Cathay's goal to reach 100 destinations globally by the end of 2025. Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau emphasized the importance of Urumqi as a key Belt and Road hub, enhancing connectivity and supporting domestic tourism in Xinjiang. This route is expected to attract both business and leisure travelers, coinciding with a surge in domestic tourism in China. Alongside this new route, Cathay and its low-cost subsidiary HK Express will operate over 290 flights weekly between Hong Kong and various mainland cities this summer. The expansion reflects Cathay's commitment to offering more travel options and supporting regional economic growth.