With its bustling nightlife, colourful markets and legendary cuisine, Hong Kong entices in more ways than one. Now it’s easier than ever for Canadians to get there, thanks to Hong Kong Airlines, which recently introduced its cost-effective Asia AirPass. We sit down with Barbara Dirnberger, National Manager Canada, Hong Kong Airlines, and ask her why the AirPass is so valuable,and what travellers can expect from the airline this year and beyond.
1. How important is the Canadian market to Hong Kong Airlines, and how many Canadian passengers did you transport in 2013?
Canadians love Hong Kong and Hong Kong Airlines loves Canadians! Hong Kong Airlines transported over 10,000 Canadians in 2013.
2. Where does the airline fly out of and where does it fly to?
Hong Kong Airlines (HX) flies out of Hong Kong. It serves 17 cities in China and seven cities in the rest of Asia. Frequency is important and so the airline offers 5x daily Bangkok service, 3x daily Beijing service, 4x daily Shanghai service, 4x daily Taipei service, and 2x daily Bali service.
3. How exactly does the Asia AirPass work and what are the benefits?
The Asia AirPass is a coupon based travel system. Clients can choose from two to six coupons. Only the first segment needs to be booked. There is no minimum stay, with a maximum stay of one year. Prices range from US$320 to $750. 5% commissionable at source. Fabulous fares. Great destinations.
4. What new routes will Hong Kong Airlines introduce in 2014?
New destinations for the airline include Kuala Lumpur some time at the end of 2014.
5. Are there any new aircraft and/or onboard amenities in store for this year and beyond?
Hong Kong Airlines has one of the youngest fleets in the sky. It just took delivery of its sixth A320, bringing the total fleet to over 20 aircraft. Also new: Hong Kong Airlines will be opening a new, four times larger Business Class lounge in the fall at the Hong Kong International Airport.
For more information about Hong Kong Airlines, contact hongkongairlines@discovertheworld.ca.
