In a bold move to deepen regional and international connectivity, Greater Bay Airlines (GBA) has announced the launch of two strategic new routes from Hong Kong International Airport. Starting 25 July 2025, the airline will begin daily scheduled flights to Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport in Fujian Province, reconnecting travelers with one of China’s oldest maritime trade cities. Complementing this initiative is a brand-new charter service to the Pacific paradise of Palau, beginning 4 July 2025, broadening the airline’s portfolio into long-haul leisure travel.
Strengthening Regional Ties with Quanzhou
Located on China’s southeastern coast, Quanzhou is a city steeped in history and culture. Once a thriving port along the ancient Maritime Silk Road, Quanzhou remains an important economic hub and heritage site. The new Hong Kong–Quanzhou route aligns with China’s Greater Bay Area (GBA) development initiative, aimed at boosting integration between cities in Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau.
GBA’s Flight HB546 will depart Hong Kong daily at 21:10, arriving in Quanzhou at 22:30. Return Flight HB547 departs Quanzhou at 08:40 (Mon–Thu, Sun) and at 08:00 (Fri–Sat), reaching Hong Kong in under two hours. This convenient schedule eliminates the need for multiple transfers and caters to both business travelers and cultural tourists, streamlining travel between two thriving coastal cities.
According to the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), domestic tourism demand continues to grow post-pandemic, with secondary cities like Quanzhou gaining increased attention. GBA’s direct flights meet this demand while reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a regional aviation hub.
Discovering the Cultural Riches of Quanzhou
Quanzhou’s appeal extends beyond its economic vitality. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, Quanzhou is home to several heritage landmarks that reflect centuries of cross-cultural exchange. Kaiyuan Temple, dating back to the Tang Dynasty, stands as Fujian’s largest Buddhist temple and a testament to traditional Chinese architecture.
Visitors can also explore the Qingyuan Mountain Scenic Area, a spiritual and ecological destination famous for the Laojun Stone Statue, China’s largest Taoist carving. The Luoyang Bridge, one of the country’s four ancient bridges, remains a marvel of Song Dynasty engineering and symbolizes Quanzhou’s prominence in China’s maritime past.
With growing interest in cultural heritage tourism, the new GBA service opens up seamless access to Quanzhou for international visitors seeking a deeper connection with Chinese history and spirituality.
Leisure Travel Takes Flight with Palau Charter
In tandem with its regional expansion, Greater Bay Airlines is branching into long-haul leisure markets with a charter service to Palau, launching 4 July 2025. Known for its crystal-clear lagoons, coral reefs, and sustainability efforts, Palau ranks among the world’s top eco-tourism destinations.
The move follows a rise in demand for off-the-beaten-path travel experiences, especially among Asia-Pacific travelers seeking alternatives to traditional holiday spots. Palau’s remote beauty, combined with GBA’s direct charter flight, removes the complexity of multi-leg itineraries.
Palau is a pioneer in sustainable tourism policies, including its renowned “Palau Pledge”, a mandatory environmental commitment required of all arriving visitors. GBA’s entry into this market supports eco-conscious travel while diversifying its route map.
Supporting Greater Bay Area Development Goals
Both the Quanzhou and Palau routes fit within the broader vision of the Greater Bay Area, a Chinese government initiative focused on transforming the southern coastal region into a global innovation and tourism powerhouse. By connecting historic cities like Quanzhou with global gateways like Hong Kong, GBA enhances cultural exchange and business synergy.
The Palau charter also represents a shift in the airline’s strategy to include flexible, seasonal destinations, providing the agility to respond to evolving travel preferences.
A Balance of Frequency and Exclusivity
GBA’s strategic expansion reflects a two-pronged approach: offering high-frequency short-haul flights to major Chinese cities while simultaneously tapping into niche luxury tourism markets abroad. This balance positions the airline to cater to both the volume-driven business sector and high-value leisure travelers.
As part of its continued growth, the airline plans to evaluate other secondary cities in Mainland China and additional charter destinations in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. The airline’s growth is supported by robust operational practices and a reputation for punctuality, affordability, and comfort.
Enhancing the Passenger Journey
Passengers flying with Greater Bay Airlines can expect a streamlined booking experience, on-time performance, and enhanced customer service. The airline’s current fleet, composed of modern Boeing 737-800 aircraft, is configured for optimal passenger comfort and efficiency.
With Hong Kong serving as the hub, travelers connecting to Fujian or Palau benefit from the city’s world-class airport infrastructure, including fast immigration clearance and extensive airport transport links.
Looking Ahead
Greater Bay Airlines’ new routes are more than just additions to a flight schedule—they are strategic efforts to reinvigorate regional tourism, deepen cultural links, and enhance Hong Kong’s status as a travel bridge between China and the world.
As post-pandemic travel continues to accelerate, these launches mark a forward-looking chapter for GBA. From the Tang Dynasty temples of Quanzhou to the tropical bliss of Palau, the airline is delivering on its promise of connecting destinations with purpose and passion.
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