Cathay Pacific recently hosted a cocktail reception at Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong, to celebrate the upcoming launch of its non-stop service between Hong Kong and Urumqi. Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam led the event, which welcomed important guests including Secretary for Transport and Logistics of the Hong Kong SAR Government Mable Chan and other key stakeholders. The event marked another milestone for Cathay Pacific as it strengthens its presence in the Chinese Mainland.
Launching on April 28, 2025, the new four-times-weekly return flights between Hong Kong and Urumqi will expand Cathay Pacific’s network to 20 destinations within the Chinese Mainland. This new service connects travelers from Hong Kong and beyond with an important Belt and Road hub in Northwestern China, reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a leading international aviation hub. Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong, and Urumqi now take center stage in promoting connectivity across regions.
At the event, Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan shared how recent developments have shaped the new route. “In May of last year, the Central Government expanded the multiple-entry Individual Visit Scheme (IVS) by adding eight new cities, including Urumqi. The launch of this new direct flight today reflects our commitment to fulfilling the Central Government’s support and expectations for Hong Kong,” she said.
She emphasized Urumqi’s role in enhancing trade and cargo operations. “Urumqi plays an important role as a conduit. Beyond passenger services, we hope Cathay will help elevate the entire air cargo industry by leveraging this new gateway to establish a new cargo corridor. This will enable air freight from various global destinations to be transported through Hong Kong International Airport and distributed to different cities across the Chinese Mainland.”
Mable Chan also mentioned the broader impact on connectivity. “With its proximity to Central Asia, Urumqi not only strengthens Hong Kong’s connectivity with the Chinese Mainland but also serves as a bridge to other continents, extending our reach to key destinations along the Belt and Road Initiative.”
Cathay Pacific Expands Its Network
Ronald Lam shared Cathay Pacific’s excitement over the new route. “With its vibrant blend of cultural experiences and stunning landscapes, Urumqi is the latest addition to our expanding Chinese Mainland network. We are excited to welcome customers onboard our flights to explore the unique offerings of Xinjiang’s capital,” he said.
Ronald Lam also highlighted the growing presence of the Cathay Group. “With services to Changzhou and Yiwu also being launched by HK Express in May, the Cathay Group will operate passenger services to a total of 22 destinations in the Chinese Mainland, providing more than 300 return flights per week during the summer peak. We remain committed to enhancing connectivity between Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and beyond by introducing more destination and flight choices for our customers.”
The new Hong Kong to Urumqi flights will use Cathay Pacific’s Airbus A330-300 aircraft, offering comfortable Business and Economy Class cabins for travelers. The flight schedule is set with CX998 departing Hong Kong at 1:30 AM and arriving in Urumqi at 7:00 AM, and CX997 leaving Urumqi at 10:15 AM to reach Hong Kong by 3:20 PM. Services will operate every Monday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Beyond the Hong Kong-Urumqi service, the Cathay Group is broadening its global reach. Fifteen new destinations have already been announced for this year, including Hyderabad, Dallas, Urumqi, Rome, Munich, and Brussels for Cathay Pacific. Meanwhile, HK Express will introduce new services to Sendai, Nha Trang, Ishigaki, Komatsu, Changzhou, Yiwu, Cheongju, Daegu, and Miyako (Shimojishima).
With these additions, the Cathay Group’s passenger network will serve over 100 destinations worldwide within the first half of 2025. This expansion offers customers more options and smoother travel experiences across many cities around the world.
