Cathay Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau commented: “April continued to present a mixed picture. Travel demand was robust, and passenger load factors were high, driven by holiday and seasonal travel, while cargo volumes were healthy. However, jet fuel prices remained at highly elevated levels amidst the ongoing Middle East situation, increasing cost pressures. We are remaining agile in our response and continue to monitor the developments closely.”

Looking ahead to the summer travel peak, Cathay Pacific and HK Express will maintain July and August flight schedules. 

“In view of softened travel demand to the Middle East in the near term, we have decided to extend the suspension of Cathay Pacific’s passenger services to Dubai and Riyadh until the end of August and redeploy the capacity to routes where customer demand is keen, such as Manchester and Rome. From a passenger capacity perspective, we remain on track to reach our 2026 growth target of around 10% despite the small number of cancellations announced previously for May and June,” said Lau.

Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific carried 17% more passengers in April 2026 compared with April 2025, while Available Seat Kilometres (ASKs) increased by 15%. In the first four months of 2026, the number of passengers carried increased by 19% compared with the same period in 2025.

Lavinia noted: “The robust load factor we achieved in April was driven by strong leisure travel demand, particularly in the first half of the month, coinciding with the Easter holidays and seasonal travel. This was followed by notable long-haul demand into our home hub in the middle of April, boosted by the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens. Then, towards the end of the month, ‘Golden Week’ pre-holiday demand stimulated inbound traffic to Hong Kong as well as outbound travel to various destinations across our network. Demand for our premium cabins was robust, with major exhibitions and trade events in Hong Kong continuing to attract business travellers from across our network.

“Looking ahead, demand is expected to remain resilient, supported by seasonal leisure travel and event-driven traffic. That said, we have seen a slight shift in booking behaviour, with some customers booking closer to their departure dates, alongside broader market uncertainties.”

Cathay Cargo

Cathay Cargo carried 8% more cargo in April 2026 than in April 2025, while Available Freight Tonne Kilometres (AFTKs) increased by 7%. In the first four months of 2026, the total tonnage increased by 8% compared with the same period in 2025.

HK Express

HK Express carried close to 730,000 passengers in April 2026, an increase of 5% year on year, while Available Seat Kilometres (ASKs) grew by 7%. In the first four months of 2026, the number of passengers carried increased by 14% compared with the same period in 2025.

“In April, HK Express continued to record passenger growth, supported by strong load factors on its Thailand routes as well as routes to secondary cities in Northeast Asia. For May and beyond, bookings remain ahead of the same period last year on most routes,” Lau concluded.

(Source: Cathay Pacific)

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Cargo volume increased to 423,000 tonnes with a 4.9% year-on-year growth during the month.

Overall passenger growth in April was supported by the Easter holiday, with daily passenger traffic peaking on 3 April at over 210,000 passengers. By passenger segment, transfer/transit passengers continued to lead in growth, followed by visitors entering the territory. 

By region, most markets expanded in April, led by the Chinese Mainland and Southeast Asia, while the Middle East was the only region to contract amid ongoing conflicts.

Overall cargo growth was mainly driven by transhipment, followed by imports, which recorded year‑on‑year increases of 20.2% and 6.5%, respectively, as the decline in exports narrowed to 0.3% year-on-year. By region, cargo performance was mixed. Growth in Europe and Southeast Asia continued to offset declines in markets such as North America and the Middle East.

For the first four months of the year, passenger volume rose by 13.0% year on year to 22.3 million, while flight movements increased by 5.1% year on year to 135,090. Cargo throughput recorded a 3.7% increase to 1.63 million tonnes compared to the same period of last year. 

On a 12-month rolling basis, HKIA handled 63.54 million passengers and 401,240 flight movements, experiencing year-on-year increases of 13.7% and 6.6% respectively. Cargo volume grew by 2.9% year on year to 5.12 million tonnes.

In the Airports Council International’s (ACI) Green Airports Recognition 2026, HKIA’s “HKIA Flood Resilience Studies” project clinched the Platinum Award in the category of over 40 million passengers per annum.

Organised by ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, the Green Airports Recognition aims to promote the best environmental practices to minimise aviation’s environmental impact. The theme of this year’s award is “Climate Change Adaptation”, recognising airports for their outstanding performance in adapting to climate change.

(Source: HKIA)

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The upgraded room categories include Cityscape, Harbourscape, Mountain Club, Harbour Club, Suite Club, and JEN Residence.

JEN Residence

The newly launched JEN Residence sets the benchmark for long-stay comfort, offering a spacious, home-like option in the heart of the city. 

Inspired by residential living, each unit features separate living and sleeping areas, a fully equipped kitchenette with a fridge and freezer, microwave, and an auto-refresh water dispenser, as well as an in-unit laundry and a walk-in closet.

Experience refined comfort at the Suite Club. Each suite is thoughtfully divided into living and sleeping zones, creating a residential-style retreat designed around everyday ease. Highlights include a spacious walk-in wardrobe, a dedicated washing area with double sinks, and a fully equipped kitchenette.

Rooftop pool and gym

Perched high above the hotel, the L29 Rooftop is a wellness and revitalisation zone featuring a state-of-the-art gym with 24/7 access, complemented by an outdoor yoga and meditation deck.

The newly renovated Club Lounge, with a dedicated meeting room, located on level 28, provides a shared sanctuary in the sky, featuring a modern design and an open pantry tailored for work, relaxation, and social connection, set against a stunning 180-degree view of Victoria Harbour.

Located in the centre of Sai Wan, JEN Hong Kong by Shangri-La is just a one-minute walk from HKU MTR Station and is adjacent to the cultural hubs of Sheung Wan and Central, making it perfect for discovering local culture, including temples, cafés, and historic streets.

(Source: Shangri-La)

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Celebrating a landmark 50^th anniversary, the sporting spectacular will run from 19 June to 1 July. The boat races also bring a festive programme to the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, spanning 13 days and featuring traditional culture, interactive workshops and performances. 

Set against Hong Kong’s world-famous skyline, the Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races will bring together teams from around the world from 27 to 28 June, transforming the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront into a vibrant hub of culture, sport and entertainment.

The grand scale of the event belies its humble beginnings.

What started five decades ago as a competitive extension of a local cultural ritual has evolved into a dynamic, citywide celebration that blends heritage with sports.

Dragon boat racing in Hong Kong traces its roots to traditional rituals performed by fishing communities, where vessels were once used to dispel bad luck and pray for peace and safety.

In 1976, the city hosted its first international race in Shau Kei Wan Typhoon Shelter, welcoming just 10 teams and marking the birth of modern international dragon boat racing.

Fast forward to today, this year’s races will welcome over 220 elite teams from 16 countries and regions over the two-day race schedule on 27 to 28 June, reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as the Events Capital of Asia.

For more information about the Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races, visit the event website: https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/events/dragon-boat-festival.html.

(Source: Hong Kong Tourism Board)

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In addition, Hong Kong secures four places in the global top 10 busiest international airline routes announced in April 2026, led by the Hong Kong-Taipei route, which ranks first.

A double-digit increase in transfer/transit passengers and visitors mainly drove passenger growth. The recent tension in the Middle East led to notable growth in traffic to and from Europe. Meanwhile, traffic to and from Southeast Asia and the Chinese Mainland continued to build momentum.

Cargo volume decreased by 4.4% to 430,000 tonnes compared with March 2025. The decline was primarily driven by a 14.9% year‑on‑year drop in exports, largely due to a steep 62.1% reduction in exports to the Middle East following regional tensions. On the other hand, imports and transhipment posted year‑on‑year increases of 6.5% and 19.5% respectively, partially offsetting the downturn in exports. By region, cargo traffic to/from Europe saw some growth, partially tempering the drop in cargo traffic to/from the Middle East and North America.

Over the first quarter of the year, passenger traffic at HKIA exceeded 16.67 million, while flight movements reached 100,645, representing year-on-year growth of 14.3% and 4.9%, respectively. Cargo volume rose by 3.3% year on year to 1.21 million tonnes.

On a 12-month rolling basis, passenger volume experienced a double-digit increase of 14.8% to 63.05 million, while flight movements rose by 7.1% to 399,450. Cargo throughput grew by 2.7% to 5.10 million tonnes.

Meanwhile, OAG, a provider of flight data and analysis services, revealed the global top 10 busiest international passenger flight routes in April 2026, among which four connect with HKIA. The Hong Kong-Taipei route is again ranked as the busiest, while the Hong Kong-Bangkok, Hong Kong-Manila, and Hong Kong-Seoul/ICN routes rank 6th, 7th, and 9th, respectively.

In other news, HKIA was awarded the prestigious title of “World’s Best Airport 2026” in the World Business Outlook Awards 2026 for its world-class efficiency, exceptional service and outstanding facilities.

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), CEO Vivian Cheung said: “We are delighted that four Hong Kong routes rank among the world’s 10 busiest international passenger flight routes and that Hong Kong has been named the World’s Best Airport 2026. These highlight global recognitions of the airport community’s collective efforts and HKIA’s strength as a leading aviation hub. Looking ahead, we will leverage the Three-runway System to expand HKIA’s aviation network, upgrade airport services, and strengthen Hong Kong’s position as the hub in Asia.”

(Source: AAHK)

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According to data published by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the global average jet fuel price has increased to USD197.83 per barrel for the week ending 10 April 2026, versus USD99.40 per barrel for the week ending 27 February 2026.

“In the past month, we have pursued every suitable means to keep our flights operating as normal, including the adjustment of fuel surcharges,” Lau explained in press releases outlining March’s traffic figures. “However, these measures have not been enough to mitigate the significantly increased fuel costs. Cutting back on capacity has always been our last resort, but regrettably, we have had to consolidate a small number of passenger flights from mid-May to the end of June. This has affected around 2% of Cathay Pacific’s total frequencies and around 6% of HK Express’s total frequencies during this period.”

Beyond June, the airline plans to operate all scheduled passenger flights, subject to developments in the Middle East situation and jet fuel prices. 

“We are remaining agile in our response while striving to maintain our network and frequencies as much as possible for our customers, business partners and the Hong Kong international aviation hub,” said Lau.

Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific carried 24% more passengers in March 2026 compared with March 2025, while Available Seat Kilometres (ASKs) increased by 9%. In the first three months of 2026, the number of passengers carried increased by 20% compared with the same period in 2025.

Demand for premium cabins was robust in March, with major events such as Art Basel Hong Kong and the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show attracting travellers from across the airline’s network. Later in the month, the group saw increased leisure travel demand in short-haul markets, as well as holiday travel during Lebaran in Indonesia and the lead-up to Easter. 

The airline’s non-stop flights to Seattle also took off on 30 March 2026.

“In view of the situation in the Middle East, we have extended the suspension of our passenger flights to Dubai and Riyadh until 30 June 2026. We have also mounted additional flights and capacity to Europe in March and April to cater for an upsurge in market demand as passengers prioritised alternative routings. Overall, we expect demand to remain robust through April, supported by the Easter holidays and increased bookings on long-haul routes with more transit traffic going through our home hub,” said Lau.

Cathay Cargo

Cathay Cargo carried 11% more cargo in March 2026 than in March 2025, while Available Freight Tonne Kilometres (AFTKs) increased by 2%. In the first three months of 2026, the total tonnage increased by 8% compared with the same period in 2025.

March marked the traditional quarter-end peak period for cargo. Tonnage growth was solid across the network, particularly from the home market of Hong Kong and the wider Greater Bay Area, as well as the rest of the Chinese Mainland, Southeast Asia and Europe. 

Turning to April, the group anticipates demand on long-haul trunk routes to remain healthy through the seasonal holidays. Market conditions are expected to remain dynamic and sensitive to the ongoing developments in the Middle East and the consequential capacity constraints across certain trade lanes. The group’s freighter services to Dubai and Riyadh also remain suspended until 31 May 2026.

HK Express

HK Express carried more than 750,000 passengers in March 2026, an increase of 22% year on year, while Available Seat Kilometres (ASKs) grew by 12%. In the first three months of 2026, passengers carried increased by 18% compared with the same period in 2025.

HK Express continued its growth momentum in March. Demand outpaced capacity growth, with destinations in Southeast and Northeast Asia being popular with customers. For April, leisure demand remains robust, especially during the Easter holidays. HK Express will launch daily direct flights to Wuxi starting 17 July, furthering the group’s network expansion in the Chinese Mainland, Lau reported.

(Source: Cathay Group)

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The two-hour and 30-minute flight will touch down near the shores of Taihu and open the door to experience the charm of Jiangnan’s classic water towns. 

Travellers can also take the high-speed rail to connect with Shanghai and other nearby cities (one-hour trips), or book open-jaw flights to explore Wuxi and Changzhou in a single trip.

To celebrate the launch, the airline is offering a limited-time flash sale to kick-start the Chinese Mainland tour with one-way Ultra Lite fares to all Chinese Mainland destinations starting from just HKD68, bookable on the airline’s website.

The airline will operate a daily round-trip flight deploying a 180-seat Airbus A320 on the route with a flight time of two hours and 30 minutes between Hong Kong (HKG) and Wuxi Sunan Shuofang Airport (WUX). It marks the airline’s seventh destination in the Chinese Mainland.

Flight schedule

Yangtze River Delta Expansion: This route strengthens the carrier’s presence in the region, joining existing services to Ningbo, Shaxian, Beijing (Daxing), Sanya, and Nanjing. (Plus regional spots like Changzhou and Yiwu).

Market Competition: HK Express enters a market already served by full-service carriers such as  Shenzhen Airlines, offering a low-cost alternative for travellers heading to Wuxi from Hong Kong using a 164-seat Boeing 737-800.

The service will run daily through 24 October 24, 2026, marking the end of the summer flight timetable.

(Source: HK Express plus additional reporting)

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Operating five times per week, the new service extends the airline’s passenger network in North America to nine destinations.

As part of Cathay’s 80th-anniversary celebrations, the inaugural Hong Kong-Seattle flight was operated by the airline’s special-edition Airbus A350 aircraft, featuring its iconic “lettuce leaf sandwich” livery, honouring eight decades of moving its home city, people and customers forward since 1946.

Cathay Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau said: “As we celebrate ‘80 Years Together’ and connect Hong Kong with the world, the launch of our Seattle service highlights the deepening ties between two global centres of innovation, culture, and commerce. 

“Through the Cathay Group’s investment of well over HKD100 billion into our fleet, cabin products, lounges and digital innovation, we are committed to offering customers a seamless and elevated travel experience, whether they are travelling to Hong Kong or connecting to onward destinations through our global network covering more than 100 destinations worldwide. This new service not only enhances connectivity for business and leisure travellers, but also reinforces our role in supporting Hong Kong’s position as a leading international aviation hub.”

Cathay Pacific’s Hong Kong-Seattle service uses an Airbus A350-900 aircraft, configured with business class, premium economy, and economy cabins. Flight schedules are as follows:

30 March – 31 May 2026; 16 September – 24 October 2026

This summer, Cathay Pacific is operating close to 120 return flights per week to nine passenger destinations across North America, including Boston, Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Seattle, Toronto and Vancouver.

(Source: Cathay Pacific)

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HKIA stood out among airports worldwide to win “Best Airport in the World” at the Global Travel Awards 2026.

The nomination list comprised leading airports worldwide. The award is based on votes cast by millions of travellers globally, recognising organisations that demonstrate excellence in aviation infrastructure and passenger experience.

In addition, HKIA has been named by Skytrax as the winner of “World’s Best Airport Security Processing” and “World’s Best Airport Washrooms” at the 2026 World Airport Awards, recognising its steadfast dedication to enhancing passenger experience, ensuring aviation safety and delivering service excellence.

These awards underscore HKIA’s commitment to maintaining rigorous security standards while actively leveraging innovative technologies to deliver an efficient and seamless passenger experience. HKIA has fully automated security gates, immigration channels and boarding gates through facial recognition, and is currently undertaking a comprehensive upgrade of security screening channels across all areas, replacing traditional X-ray channels with CT-driven screening. The forthcoming Terminal 2 will also incorporate this proven efficiency enhancement, alongside other passenger-facility upgrades.

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), Chief Executive Officer Vivian Cheung, remarked: “We are truly honoured to receive the best airport awards across such a wide range of areas, which reflect the dedication and collective efforts of the entire Hong Kong International Airport community. We continue to expand our air network for both passenger and cargo traffic, with a view to reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as the hub of Asia. Looking ahead, the SKYTOPIA development will transform HKIA into an Airport City, creating a dynamic destination that inspires travel, drives connectivity and welcomes the world to Hong Kong.”

(Source: AAHK)

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These new sailings replace the previous three-night Sanya itineraries, offering guests the opportunity to explore two destinations in a single voyage, combining cultural discovery with scenic coastal experiences.

Departing on 12 and 19 April and 10 May 2026, these limited sailings will take travellers to the port city of Kaohsiung and the island paradise of Penghu — an increasingly sought-after destination.

What makes this journey especially appealing is the ease and convenience of cruising from Hong Kong with StarCruises. With no airport queues and no need for constant packing and unpacking, guests can step onboard and enjoy a seamless journey between destinations.

From the energetic cityscape of Kaohsiung to the relaxed island charm of Penghu, the itinerary brings two contrasting experiences together in one voyage.

Bookings for the three-night Kaohsiung–Penghu cruise opened on 1 April 2026.

(Source: StarCruises)

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