Cathay Pacific has officially revived its long-anticipated direct flight service between South Africa and Hong Kong, putting an end to a three-year hiatus.
The eagerly awaited journey took flight aboard the state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900, departing from busy O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg at 11:20 AM local time on 2 August, 2023.
Passengers aboard the A350 aircraft, boasting a sophisticated configuration encompassing Business, Premium Economy, and Economy cabin classes, were treated to a captivating and culturally rich experience.
The embarkation was accompanied by the enchanting Lion Dance, a time-honored Chinese tradition symbolizing good fortune and auspicious beginnings.
The celebratory atmosphere was further enhanced with an assortment of delectable sweet treats, setting the tone for an extraordinary journey ahead.
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Resumption of a pivotal route
Rakesh Raicar, Cathay Pacific’s Regional General Manager for South Asia, Middle East, and Africa, hailed the revival of this pivotal route as a significant milestone for local air travel enthusiasts. The renewed route is set to operate thrice a week, specifically on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
Raicar was enthusiastic about the service resumption, stating, “We are thrilled to be gracing South African skies once again, providing a seamless and direct connection to the heart of Hong Kong for our valued South African customers.”
“This reintroduction also entails rejuvenating access to a plethora of captivating destinations across Asia, catering to the demands of both business and leisure travelers.”
“The initial response has been overwhelmingly positive, as evidenced by a robust inaugural flight and a promising trajectory for future bookings.”
‘World of Winners’ campaign
In a heartwarming gesture to commemorate the resurgence of South African tourists in Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific and Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) have orchestrated the “World of Winners” campaign.
This initiative has culminated in the granting of 450 lucky South Africans with tickets to the enchanting city of Hong Kong. This token of appreciation not only rekindles the bond between the two regions but also underscores the significance of tourism in fostering international harmony.
Surge in demand
Raicar underlines that Cathay Pacific’s triumphant return to the South African skies is a jubilant occasion, resonating not only with the airline but also with the esteemed clientele and the broader South African tourism sector.
As the demand for both corporate and leisure travel to Hong Kong and other pivotal markets continues to surge, the revival of direct flights to Hong Kong assumes a pivotal role.
Beyond the convenience of these flights, they also seamlessly connect travelers to the Greater Bay Area through an array of dependable intermodal services.
This strategic move augments Cathay Pacific’s role in facilitating customers’ journeys, not solely through flights but also by providing comprehensive holiday and hotel booking solutions.
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