Queensland’s Gold Coast Airport is set to rekindle its connection with Hong Kong after a six-year hiatus. Hong Kong Airlines has announced the launch of seasonal services to the popular Australian destination.
This development marks a significant milestone in the region’s post-pandemic recovery and international tourism strategy. The new route is scheduled to coincide with the Chinese Lunar New Year period. It will operate for five weeks from January 17 to February 15, 2025.
The airline will operate four flights per week, delivering approximately 6,000 inbound seats to the Gold Coast. This will provide a substantial boost to the local tourism industry during one of its busiest seasons.
First Route Restoration Since Pandemic
This initiative represents Hong Kong Airlines’ first restored Australian connection since the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted global travel.
The revival of this route has been made possible through collaborative efforts and support from key stakeholders. These include the State Government’s Attracting Aviation Investment Fund (AAIF), Experience Gold Coast, and the City of Gold Coast.
Queensland Airports Officer Amelia Evans expressed optimism about the new service. She emphasized its potential Limited Chief Executive to elevate the Gold Coast’s profile across key Asian markets. “This will be our first direct connection to Greater China since 2018,” Evans noted.
“We are hopeful the seasonal service will showcase the Gold Coast as a premier destination in our key markets of Hong Kong and mainland China. If successful, this could pave the way for longer-term services.”
The Vital Chinese Market
The significance of reconnecting with the Chinese market cannot be overstated. Prior to the pandemic, China was a critical visitor market for both the Gold Coast and Queensland. The resumption of this route represents a positive step forward in the region’s international recovery journey.
Hong Kong Airlines Chairman Jeff Sun shared his enthusiasm for the new route. “We are delighted to be the first Hong Kong carrier to bring back this much-anticipated Australia route for passengers.”
Sun further explained that this launch marks the airline’s re-entry into the long-haul market and will expand their network,. It will offer passengers more diverse international travel options.
The economic implications of this new service are substantial. Queensland Tourism Minister Michael Healy highlighted the potential boost to the local economy. This is particularly so during the festive Lunar New Year period.
“These seasonal flights to the Gold Coast will provide a real festive season boost for local tourism operators and hospitality providers,” Healy said.
He also noted that this initiative aligns with Queensland’s broader tourism goals. It will contribute to the aim of building an $11 billion international visitor economy by the 2032 Olympic Games.
The success of the Attracting Aviation Investment Fund in securing international routes is evident. To date, it has facilitated 36 international routes, bringing more than 2.28 million inbound international seats worth $2 billion in annual visitor spending.
The Gold Coast and Tourism
City of Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate emphasized the importance of international connectivity for the city, stating, “Tourism is in our city’s DNA, so we look forward to welcoming visitors via Hong Kong Airlines back to the Gold Coast to experience everything we have to offer.”
Experience Gold Coast CEO John Warn provided context on the historical significance of the China and Hong Kong markets. He revealed that five years ago, visitor spend from these markets was worth $430.3 million to the Gold Coast economy. The region was attracting more than 280,000 visitors annually.
While the market is still on the road to recovery, recent figures show promising growth, with $96.7 million contributed by 53,000 visitors in the year ending March 2024.
Warn stressed the importance of this new service in bolstering international visitation as the city continues to rebuild its tourism sector. “One of our key priorities is to grow connectivity and secure new airline partnerships,” he explained.
“This allows the Gold Coast to tap into new markets and re-establish links with markets that are crucial for the resurgence of international visitation.”
Conclusion
As the Gold Coast prepares to welcome its first Hong Kong connection in six years, the anticipation is palpable. This seasonal service not only represents a significant step in the region’s post-pandemic recovery but also opens up new opportunities for cultural exchange and economic growth.
With the combined efforts of local authorities, tourism bodies, and Hong Kong Airlines, the Gold Coast is poised to reclaim its position as a premier destination for Asian travelers.
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