Cathay Pacific will restart non-stop service between Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) and Adelaide Airport (ADL) starting 11 November 2025. The three-times-weekly seasonal route reconnects Asia and South Australia and operates through until 27 March 2026.
This marks Adelaide as Cathay Pacific’s eighth destination in the Southwest Pacific region, reinforcing its Asia-Australia network presence.
Modern Aircraft Enhances Comfort & Efficiency
The route will be flown using the Airbus A350‑900. Its wide-body design delivers quieter engines, more fuel efficiency, and a better in-flight experience. The cabin offers fully flat beds in Business class, a Premium Economy section, and a comfortable Economy cabin.
These features make the journey between Hong Kong and Adelaide smoother for business and leisure travellers alike.
Schedule & Operating Details
Flights from Hong Kong to Adelaide (CX173) depart at 23:30 on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, arriving next morning at 10:30. The return flights (CX174) depart Adelaide at 12:00 on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, arriving in Hong Kong at 17:40.
The service will run on a seasonal basis from mid-November 2025 to late March 2026.
Tourism & Business Opportunities Expand
For tourists, the direct link offers easy access to Adelaide’s vibrant arts scene, gourmet wine regions, coastal landscapes and relaxed lifestyle. The flight simplifies travel from Hong Kong and broader Asia into South Australia, removing previous transfer hurdles.
Business travellers also benefit. Adelaide is seeing growth in health care, manufacturing, education and tech industries. Direct flights mean faster access, more flexibility and stronger ties between Asia and South Australia.
Boost for South Australia’s Economy
The re-established route is expected to make a strong economic impact. The added connectivity supports tourism growth, cargo movement and trade flows. For South Australia it means more inbound travellers, new business linkages and greater global exposure.
Adelaide is increasingly viewed as a key gateway for both visitors and exporters — thanks in part to improved international air connectivity.
Strategic Move for Cathay Pacific
The Hong Kong–Adelaide service aligns with Cathay Pacific’s broader expansion strategy. After pausing the route during the pandemic, the airline is re-investing in Australia. With the Adelaide link, Cathay boosts its capacity in the region and strengthens its hub-and-spoke model via Hong Kong.
The move underlines the carrier’s ambition to offer more destinations, modern aircraft and premium service for global travellers.
Booking Advice & Travel Tips
Passengers are encouraged to book early, as demand is expected to be strong. The schedule runs until 27 March 2026, and seats across Business, Premium Economy and Economy may fill quickly.
Travellers should also consider connections via Hong Kong to other destinations in Asia, Europe or North America. And for businesses or tourists operating between Hong Kong and Adelaide, this route offers an efficient, direct alternative.
Final Word
With the November 2025 launch of three weekly A350-900 flights between Hong Kong and Adelaide, Cathay Pacific revitalises a vital Asia-Australia corridor. The route promises enhanced comfort, faster travel and stronger ties between the two regions. For leisure flyers and business visitors alike, the direct connection opens fresh horizons. South Australia gains a significant boost to tourism and trade, while Cathay solidifies its role in the global aviation map.
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