The airline returns to South Africa with three flights per week, connecting the country with Hong Kong and beyond  

Cathay Pacific’s much-awaited direct flight between South Africa and Hong Kong is officially back following a three-year hiatus, with the first resumed flight on-board the Airbus A350-900 departing at 11:20 am on 2 August 2023 from Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport.

Passengers onboard the A350 aircraft, which is equipped with Business, Premium Economy and Economy cabin classes, were treated to the traditional Lion Dance, which according to Chinese tradition brings good fortune. A selection of sweet treats were also served ahead of the inaugural flight.

Rakesh Raicar, Cathay Pacific’s Regional General Manager for South Asia, Middle East and Africa, said that the resumption of this route, which kicks off with three flights a week, on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays, is a significant milestone for local air travel. “We are thrilled to be flying South African skies again, bringing the ease and convenience of a non-stop connection to Hong Kong back to South African customers, not to mention re-opening travel into the rest of Asia’s many exotic destinations for business and leisure customers. The demand has been very encouraging, and we are happy to share a healthy first flight and forward booking trend as well.”

In celebration of the return of South African tourists to Hong Kong, 450 South Africans have been awarded tickets to Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific, as part of the World of Winners campaign sponsored by Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).

Raicar adds that the airline’s return to South African skies is a happy occasion for not only Cathay Pacific, but also for customers and South African tourism alike. “As demand for corporate and leisure travel to Hong Kong and other key markets grows, the resumption of flights to Hong Kong, and connecting our customers to the rest of the Greater Bay Area with a wide range of reliable and convenient intermodal services couldn’t have arrived at a better time. Cathay Pacific continues to be a part of our customers’ journeys by moving them forward in life, not just through our flight offerings, but also with holidays and hotel booking options.”

About Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific is the home airline of Hong Kong, offering scheduled passenger and cargo services to destinations in Asia, North America, Australia, Europe and Africa. Cathay Pacific is a member of the Swire Group and is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. The airline has made substantial investments to develop Hong Kong as one of the world's leading global transportation hubs. Cathay Pacific is a founder member of the oneworld global alliance. For more information, please visit www.cathaypacific.com.