Hong Kong Airlines Launches Direct Hong Kong–Melbourne Flights Starting December 2025
HONG KONG / MELBOURNE – In a strategic move to strengthen air connectivity between Hong Kong and Australia, Hong Kong Airlines has announced the launch of its direct service to Melbourne, set to commence on December 12, 2025. The thrice-weekly service marks a major milestone in the airline’s international network expansion and is expected to significantly boost tourism and trade between the two vibrant cities.
This new route will utilize the Airbus A330, an aircraft known for its spacious, comfortable cabins and advanced in-flight technology, ensuring a premium experience for both business and leisure travelers.
Boosting Australia–Hong Kong Travel Links
Hong Kong Airlines’ decision to add Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL) to its growing list of destinations underscores the rising demand for direct air services between Asia and southeastern Australia. The Victorian capital, known for its cultural events, world-class dining, and economic dynamism, is a key market for inbound and outbound travel.
The new service aligns with Tourism Australia’s ongoing strategy to rebuild international visitation, and supports the Victorian Government’s economic recovery plan, which includes strengthening trade links and attracting global tourists. According to Visit Victoria, China and Hong Kong combined delivered over 570,000 visitors to the state in 2019, contributing over AUD $3.4 billion to the local economy pre-pandemic.
Flight Schedule and Seamless Connectivity
The Melbourne route will operate three times a week using the Airbus A330-300 aircraft, featuring both Business and Economy Class cabins. Passengers departing from Melbourne will gain easy access to Hong Kong Airlines’ extensive Asia-Pacific network, with onward connections to cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Bali, and Vancouver.
Additionally, inbound travelers from Shanghai, Hangzhou, Haikou, Sanya, and Fukuoka will be able to seamlessly connect to Melbourne, thanks to optimized flight timings at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG).
The airline’s integration with Hong Kong’s Three-Runway System, due for full operational rollout by 2026, will further increase capacity and efficiency, making the hub one of the most advanced in Asia.
Official Launch Ceremony in Melbourne
To celebrate the new route, a formal signing ceremony was held at Melbourne Airport with senior representatives from Hong Kong Airlines, Melbourne Airport, and the Victorian Government in attendance. The event emphasized the importance of the new connection in stimulating bilateral tourism and trade relations.
Speaking at the ceremony, Jeff Sun, President of Hong Kong Airlines, highlighted the significance of the expansion:
“2025 marks a turning point for Hong Kong Airlines. After resuming Gold Coast operations in January and launching Sydney services in June, our Melbourne debut consolidates our growing footprint in Australia. This route is a response to strong demand and represents our long-term investment in the market.”
Government and Airport Support Drives Growth
The launch was made possible through coordinated efforts between Hong Kong Airlines and the Victorian State Government. Lorie Argus, CEO of Melbourne Airport, welcomed the new entrant, stating:
“Hong Kong is already Melbourne Airport’s fourth-largest international market, and we are confident that Hong Kong Airlines will bring increased competition and valuable choices for our travelers.”
Victorian Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs, Danny Pearson, praised the initiative as a driver of economic uplift:
“More direct flights mean more tourists, more exports, and more jobs—from hotel workers and tour guides to freight handlers and farmers. This is a win for all Victorians.”
The increased capacity will not only cater to passenger demand but also expand air freight opportunities, supporting Victorian exporters shipping fresh produce, wine, seafood, and dairy products to key Asian markets.
Elevating the In-Flight Experience
Passengers flying to and from Melbourne will benefit from Hong Kong Airlines’ full-service amenities, including gourmet inflight dining, multilingual entertainment systems, and enhanced customer service. Business Class travelers can enjoy flatbed seats and access to partner lounges, while Economy passengers will have generous legroom and upgraded onboard meals.
The airline’s environmentally efficient Airbus A330 is equipped with lower carbon emissions per passenger, supporting broader aviation sustainability goals as outlined in IATA’s Fly Net Zero commitment.
Expanding Global Reach
Hong Kong Airlines currently operates services to over 30 destinations globally, and Melbourne becomes its third major Australian destination following the Gold Coast and Sydney. The carrier plans further route additions in 2026, coinciding with infrastructure improvements at HKG.
The airline’s expansion strategy complements the Hong Kong Tourism Board’s (HKTB) renewed efforts to attract Australian visitors. Recent campaigns have focused on highlighting Hong Kong’s dynamic food scene, nature escapes, and new art and cultural venues like the West Kowloon Cultural District.
A Promising Future for Bilateral Tourism
With the launch of direct Hong Kong–Melbourne flights, both regions are set to benefit from enhanced connectivity, diversified tourism opportunities, and deepened cultural exchange.
For travelers, the new service provides a faster, more convenient way to explore two of the Asia-Pacific’s most iconic cities—whether for business, education, family visits, or leisure. For local economies, it brings fresh energy to a post-pandemic recovery path and encourages cross-border collaboration.
As December 12, 2025 approaches, Hong Kong Airlines invites passengers to experience the airline’s evolving global network and discover Melbourne with new eyes—through a direct, comfortable, and reliable journey in the skies.
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