Cathay Pacific has resumed direct flights between Hong Kong and Adelaide for the first time since early 2020, marking a full return of all international routes that operated into South Australia before the pandemic.
The first flight touched down this week, ending a five-year absence that began when services were suspended at the onset of COVID-19. The seasonal service will run three times a week – on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays – through to March 2026, using the A350-900 aircraft.
For South Australia, the reinstatement represents more than a symbolic milestone. The direct Hong Kong connection links the state with key trade and tourism markets across Asia and further afield, expected to add fresh momentum to visitor spending and exports. International visitor expenditure in South Australia has already reached a record 1.7 billion dollars, and the government hopes the return of major carriers will help push that figure even higher.
Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison said the return of Cathay Pacific had been a major priority, describing it as a boost to both tourism and the wider economy. She noted that all airlines flying into Adelaide before the pandemic are now back, contributing to a period of renewed global connectivity for the state.
Transport Minister Joe Szakacs said the government worked closely with Cathay Pacific to re-establish the route, adding that the airline’s 15-tonne cargo capacity would support South Australian exporters. Up to 45 tonnes of goods will now be able to fly out of Adelaide each week while the service operates.
Cathay Pacific’s Regional General Manager for Southeast Asia and Oceania, Frosti Lau, said Adelaide had a long relationship with the airline dating back to 1992. He highlighted the connection between Cathay and Flight Training Adelaide, where the company’s cadet pilot program has been running for more than three decades.
The relaunch means Cathay Pacific has now reinstated all its pre-pandemic Australian routes, offering South Australians access to more than 100 destinations across its network. Lau said the service would cater to travellers reconnecting with family, heading abroad for business, or seeking new destinations, while also supporting local exporters through tailored cargo services.
Adelaide Airport Managing Director Brenton Cox welcomed the airline’s return, calling Cathay an enduring partner for the airport. He noted the introduction of the A350-900 as an upgrade from the A330 previously used on the route, with the addition of Premium Economy giving travellers more choice.
He added that strong inbound demand is expected, driven by South Australia’s growing appeal to international tourists and students.
The Cathay Pacific restart caps off a run of new international connections for Adelaide, including Air New Zealand’s new link with Christchurch, the return of Qantas international services, China Eastern’s planned Shanghai route next year, and United Airlines’ direct flights from San Francisco starting next month. By then, South Australia will have more international airlines serving the state than ever before.
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