Hong Kong Airlines has resumed Australian services after six years, arriving on the Gold Coast in time for 2025 Lunar New Year celebrations. 

The seasonal service will deliver 5,000 seats into the Gold Coast over the next four weeks until 15 February, boosting tourism and trade over the festive period. 

Lion dancers kickstarted the celebrations in the terminal, as Queensland Tourism Minister Andrew Powell, Queensland Airports Limited CEO Amelia Evans and dignitaries welcomed passengers from the inaugural flight.  

Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said this influx from Hong Kong over the Lunar New Year period is an exciting opportunity for the Gold Coast, supporting local jobs and the economy.  

“We are excited to welcome thousands of travellers over this four-week period,” said Minister Powell. 

“This service is expected to bring $9.14 million in overnight visitor expenditure, supporting up to 90 local jobs.  

“These visitors can go from the tarmac to the beach quicker and easier than ever with this service, an excellent opportunity for the local economy and tourism operators. This is another win for the $200 million Attracting Aviation Investment Fund.”

Queensland Airports Limited CEO Amelia Evans said the airport was thrilled to welcome Hong Kong Airlines back to the city.

"We're delighted to welcome Hong Kong Airlines' guests to our beautiful city of Gold Coast and can't wait for them to experience the best of an Australian summer across the whole region," Ms. Evans said. 

“Before the pandemic, China was the Gold Coast’s number one international market, attracting more than 300,000 visitors a year.

“We hope this connection with Hong Kong will pave the way for longer-term services across our key markets in Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area, and Mainland China.” 

Hong Kong Airlines Chairman Mr Yan Bo stated, "We are delighted to have a full flight of passengers on our first voyage, with around 300 travellers coming to experience Queensland's warm climate and exciting tourist activities.” 

“We also look forward to welcoming visitors from the Gold Coast and Queensland to Hong Kong during our operation period, inviting them to immerse in the vibrant atmosphere of the Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations and enjoy authentic Hong Kong cuisine." 

Hong Kong Airlines President and Captain Mr Sun joined the cockpit crew to pilot the first flight, he stated, "As one of Hong Kong's leading full-service airlines, Hong Kong Airlines is committed to providing high-quality, comprehensive services, including flexible baggage allowance options, complimentary inflight meals, and comfortable seats, to ensure that every passenger can enjoy a pleasant journey."  

Acting City of Gold Coast Mayor Donna Gates celebrated the return of the important service. 

“It’s touchdown for our city and what a welcome return after six years,’’ said Cr Gates. 

“Let’s hope that just like Hong Kong’s famous orchid, something magical grows from the return of this seasonal service to our city. We have so much to share and I applaud all involved.” 

Tourism and Events Queensland’s (TEQ) Ollie Philpot helped mark the milestone arrival. 

“This is an exciting moment and one we hope signals the beginning of a major boost to the festive period on the Gold Coast,” said Mr Philpot. 

“TEQ has worked closely with Hong Kong Airlines and partners including Experience Gold Coast and Tourism Australia to put the Gold Coast up in lights in Hong Kong and Mainland China to drive demand for these flights and the destination.” 

Experience Gold Coast CEO John Warn said the resumption of Hong Kong Airlines’ services marks a significant step forward for the Gold Coast’s tourism industry. 

“China is a hugely important source market for the Gold Coast, so we are thrilled to see Hong Kong Airlines’ services lift off again,” Mr Warn said. 

“In the year ending September 2024, we saw visitation from China increase to 56,000 visitors and while the market is still on the long road to recovery, this is a very positive sign and we’re confident the new Hong Kong Airlines seasonal service will only bolster those numbers further.” 

The return of these services has been made possible through the support of the Queensland Government’s Attracting Aviation Investment Fund. 

The service will operate until 15 February 2025.