In this file photo dated March 29, 2023, Hong Kong low-cost carrier HK Express holds a launching ceremony for its first A321neo airbus at the Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong. - Photo: China Daily file
HONG KONG: Budget carrier HK Express has been recognised as the world’s “fastest-growing airline of 2024" by global travel data provider OAG, following a 40-percent surge in passenger volume that exceeded 6 million last year.
According to OAG, HK Express also experienced a 46-per cent rise in the number of flights during the same period, reaching over 35,000 last year.
The news broke after a special ceremony on Dec 31, when the Cathay Pacific Airways subsidiary celebrated carrying its 6-millionth passenger of 2024 at the boarding gate for a flight to Fukuoka, Japan.
The passenger was awarded six round-trip tickets.
In a statement on Monday (Jan 6), HK Express CEO Jeanette Mao Jie-qiong expressed pride in the airline’s accomplishments.
“Last year was a significant milestone for HK Express as our team worked diligently to expand our network, fleet, and workforce. Surpassing 6 million passengers in a single year is a remarkable achievement, and we are honoured to be recognised as the fastest-growing airline globally,” she said.
Mao also emphasized the airline’s commitment to enhancing Hong Kong’s status as an international aviation hub.
Hong Kong’s Transport and Logistics Bureau commended the airline’s achievements on social media, with new Secretary Mable Chan congratulating both Cathay Pacific and HK Express for reaching a post-pandemic peak in passenger numbers.
Chan noted that thriving local airlines can help reinforce Hong Kong’s position as an international aviation hub, benefiting travelers in the region.
The statement highlighted that the two airlines combined carried over 100,000 passengers on Dec 15 and maintained 100,000 daily passenger trips for eight consecutive days during the recent holiday period.
Since being acquired by Cathay Pacific in 2019, HK Express — which flies to numerous destinations in Japan and other parts of Asia — has solidified its presence in Hong Kong’s aviation sector by expanding its fleet to 40 aircraft.
The airline gained attention for its aggressive promotional strategies last year, including a summertime campaign that offered return tickets between Hong Kong and Tokyo for as low as HK$10 (US$1.20).
In October, HK Express made headlines again with a program allowing customers to book two round-trip tickets to various Asian destinations starting at just HK$88. - China Daily/ANN
