Cathay Pacific has marked the imminent launch of its new non-stop passenger flights between Hong Kong and Urumqi with a cultural celebration in Hong Kong on April 25.
This new service, starting Monday, April 28, 2025, will operate four times a week and further expand Cathay Pacific’s network in the Chinese Mainland to 20 destinations.
The addition of Urumqi, an important Belt and Road hub, strengthens the airline’s position in the region, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as a pivotal international aviation hub.
The new Hong Kong-Urumqi route will connect travelers from Hong Kong and around the world with the capital of Xinjiang Province in Northwestern China.
Secretary for Transport and Logistics of the Hong Kong SAR Government Mable Chan remarked that she hopes Cathay will help elevate the entire air cargo industry
During the event, Mable Chan, the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, emphasized the route’s significance:
“In May of last year, the Central Government expanded the Multiple-Entry Individual Visit Scheme (IVS), adding Urumqi to the list of new cities."
"This direct flight service demonstrates our support for the Central Government’s goals and the role Hong Kong plays in strengthening China’s air and economic connections.”
She continued, noting that Urumqi, with its proximity to Central Asia, not only enhances Hong Kong’s direct access to the Chinese Mainland, but also acts as a bridge to further extend the city’s global reach.
“We envision this new gateway will not only boost passenger traffic but also contribute to air cargo development, opening a key cargo corridor that will connect global air freight to cities across China.”
Cathay Group CEO Ronald Lam said the Group will fly to 22 passenger destinations in the Chinese Mainland, providing more than 300 return flights per week during the summer peak.
Cathay Group CEO Ronald Lam echoed the excitement surrounding the new service, adding:
“Urumqi is an exciting addition to our growing Chinese Mainland network."
"The city’s unique culture and stunning landscapes offer a special experience, and we look forward to introducing this new destination to our travelers.”
The launch of the Urumqi service complements other new destinations, including Changzhou and Yiwu, also launched by HK Express in May 2025.
Cathay Group will operate flights to 22 Chinese Mainland destinations, with more than 300 return flights per week during the summer peak.
“By enhancing connectivity between Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland, and international destinations, we’re making it easier than ever for customers to explore new places and broaden their horizons,” Lam added.
Urumqi’s New Airbus A330-300 Service
The direct flights to Urumqi will be operated by Cathay Pacific’s Airbus A330-300, offering both Business and Economy cabins, designed for comfort on long-haul journeys.
The flight schedules are as follows (all times local):
Cathay Pacific isn’t just focused on the Chinese Mainland.
The Cathay Group also continues to expand its global footprint with 15 new destinations for 2025, including Hyderabad, Dallas, Rome, Munich, and Brussels for Cathay Pacific.
Similarly, HK Express will add Sendai, Nha Trang, Ishigaki, Changzhou, and Miyako (Shimojishima) to its portfolio.
By mid-2025, Cathay Group’s passenger network will span over 100 destinations worldwide, ensuring customers have a seamless travel experience with more flight choices, from Asia to Europe and beyond.
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