RICHMOND, BC — Hong Kong Airlines has announced its North American debut with the launch of new nonstop daily service between Hong Kong and Vancouver next summer.

Kicking off on June 30, 2017, the year-round service between Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) and Vancouver International Airport (YVR) will initially be operated using an Airbus 330-200 with 283 seats. The airline operates one of the youngest fleets in the world, with an average aircraft age of just 4.1 years.

“Hong Kong Airlines is a well-known, family-friendly airline based in a world class city, and we are thrilled to be able to offer the public even more options to travel between Vancouver and Hong Kong,” said Craig Richmond, President and CEO, Vancouver Airport Authority. “Every new airline that chooses to fly to YVR means more jobs for the local economy and creates new opportunities for British Columbians.”

The new daily service will generate approximate 431 jobs in British Columbia, both at the airport and in the tourism industry.

Hong Kong Airlines is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a new campaign titled ‘Flying Beyond’. In addition to the new Vancouver service, the airline will mark the arrival of its first A350 aircraft in August 2017 as part of its ongoing fleet expansion. It will also debut its new VIP lounge at HKG in the first quarter of 2017, which will offer upgraded premium services to more passengers.