Cathay Airlines has welcomed the initiatives introduced by the Hong Kong SAR Government aimed at enhancing its international aviation status. The initiatives will harness new opportunities from the Three-Runway System, boost the supply of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and improve air connectivity with more destinations, as highlighted in the Chief Executive’s 2025 Policy Address.

In a statement released on September 17, Cathay Group CEO Ronald Lam mentioned: “Hong Kong International Airport continues to rank among the busiest in the world for international travel and is also a leading hub for cargo.”

Lam noted that the Three-Runway System’s launch creates new opportunities for Cathay to strengthen its connectivity role linking the Greater Bay Area and the globe.

Advancing Sustainable Aviation

The government’s plans to foster SAF supply and build a blending facility in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area were also praised. Lam remarked: “SAF is seen as crucial by the industry for decarbonizing aviation. We anticipate that these efforts will enhance the global competitiveness of Hong Kong’s aviation sector and facilitate better SAF availability and affordability. We look forward to collaborating with the government and industry partners to promote SAF usage in Hong Kong and beyond, supporting a shift to more sustainable aviation operations.”

Cathay also appreciated the government’s initiatives aimed at expanding Hong Kong’s aviation network. This includes increasing destination access and negotiating new air service agreements with emerging global markets. Such strategies are closely tied to Cathay’s ambitions to expand its network and enhance customer experience, contributing to Hong Kong’s ongoing growth.

Improving Connectivity

Furthermore, the carrier supports measures to improve intermodal connectivity within the Greater Bay Area. This includes extending exemptions from the Air Passenger Departure Tax for transit travelers arriving in Hong Kong by land or sea and expanding the “Fly-Via-Zhuhai-Hong Kong” service to more cities in mainland China.

These initiatives will provide passengers traveling to and from Hong Kong with greater flexibility and improved connections throughout the region.

As Lam articulated: “As the largest cargo operator in the world’s busiest cargo airport, Cathay is eager for the government to advance the HKIA Dongguan Logistics Park, allowing us to enhance cargo transshipment capabilities through Hong Kong to the global marketplace.”

Fostering Cultural Exchange

Cathay also supports initiatives aimed at positioning Hong Kong as a cultural exchange hub between East and West, and bolstering mega-event tourism. The company maintains a long-standing relationship with the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority and supports significant events, such as the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, which enhance Hong Kong’s international stature.

In conclusion, Lam affirmed: “For nearly eight decades, Cathay has played a vital role in the development of the Hong Kong aviation hub. We remain confident in the future of our home hub and will continue to work toward a more connected and resilient aviation future for Hong Kong.”