Cathay Pacific has announced the launch of direct passenger flights connecting Hong Kong and Riyadh, the capital and financial centre of Saudi Arabia, starting from 28 October 2024. The new service aims to enhance connectivity, trade, and cultural exchange between Hong Kong and countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative.
The announcement was marked by a signing ceremony in Hong Kong, attended by Secretary for Transport and Logistics Lam Sai-hung, Consul General of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Hong Kong SAR Hamad Aljebreen, Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam, and Saudi Air Connectivity Program Chief Executive Officer Majid Khan.
Lam Sai-hung expressed gratitude to Cathay Pacific for their support of the government’s policies and for considering Hong Kong’s strategic development needs in their network planning. He emphasized the Hong Kong SAR Government’s commitment to strengthening aviation services on current major routes and routes along the Belt and Road with potential.
Consul General Hamad Aljebreen described the inauguration of the route as a pivotal step in improving relations, building bridges of communication and cooperation, and strengthening economic, tourism, and cultural ties between Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong SAR.
Cathay Group CEO Ronald Lam highlighted the significance of the new service in offering more travel options and greater convenience for customers, as well as promoting opportunities for business, trade, and tourism. He reaffirmed Cathay’s support for the Belt and Road Initiative and its role in connecting Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland with the world.
Saudi Air Connectivity Program CEO Majid Khan welcomed Cathay Pacific to Saudi Arabia and expressed optimism about the potential for developing air connectivity and growing inbound tourism from key source markets.
Cathay Pacific will operate three return flights per week between Hong Kong and Riyadh using its modern Airbus A350-900 aircraft, featuring Business, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins. The new passenger service complements Cathay Cargo’s current weekly freighter flights between the two cities.
