HK Express optimistic on passenger prospects

Amid ongoing safety concerns among Chinese visitors, HK Express, a low-cost carrier owned by Cathay Pacific Group, is anticipating a record high of 1 million passengers for its flights operating between Hong Kong and Thailand.

- MOLPASORN SHOOWONG

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported that the first choice for travel among Chinese people remains within Asia-Pacific.

During the first five months of this year, HK Express increased flight capacity between Thailand and Hong Kong by 30%, serving more than 400,000 passengers, chief executive Jeanette Mao told the Bangkok Post at IATA’s annual general summit.

The airline shuttles passengers from Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area (GBA) of China to destinations in Southeast Asia, including Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai.

Typically, one in every four passengers comes from cities located in the GBA, such as Shenzhen, Guangzhou and Zhuhai.

In addition, more Thais are visiting Hong Kong and China thanks to the visa-free scheme, she said.

Ms Mao said the airline is cooperating with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to promote Thailand, with an expectation that more than 1 million passengers will travel on the routes it operates this year.

In 2024, the number of flights operated by HK Express grew by 46% as it became the fastest-growing airline, she said.