On October 30, 2024, King Khalid International Airport, operated by Riyadh Airports Company, announced a significant collaboration with Cathay Pacific Airlines to introduce regular flights between Riyadh and Hong Kong. Starting from October 28, the new service will operate three times a week, enhancing connectivity between the Saudi capital and one of Asia’s major financial hubs.
Ayman AboAbah, CEO of Riyadh Airports Company, stated that the launch of these direct flights represents a culmination of collaborative efforts between Riyadh Airports Company and the Saudi Air Connectivity Program (ACP). This initiative aims to bolster air transport flow between King Khalid International Airport and various international destinations, aligning with the broader national objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to enhance the Kingdom's global connectivity and diversify its economy.
Majid Khan, CEO of the ACP, highlighted that the introduction of these flights would significantly upgrade the air connectivity network within the Kingdom. This development is expected to attract a greater number of tourists, as travelers from Hong Kong and across the Cathay Pacific network—including Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia—will gain easier access to the rich tourism offerings available in Saudi Arabia.
Lavinia Lau, Chief Customer and Commercial Officer at Cathay Pacific, expressed optimism about the new service, stating that it would strengthen commercial and cultural ties between Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia. The airline has assigned the modern Airbus A350-900 to operate these flights, which has a capacity of up to 280 passengers, ensuring a comfortable travel experience for those journeying between the two locations.
This collaboration not only reflects the growing importance of air travel in connecting diverse regions but also emphasizes the Kingdom's commitment to enhancing its position as a global tourism destination.