Friday, May 23, 2025
Cathay Pacific, one of Asia’s leading international airlines, is set to resume direct flights from Hong Kong to Adelaide starting Tuesday, 11 November 2025.
This move restores a critical air link for South Australia, reconnecting the state to major Asian tourism and trade markets and marking the completion of reinstating all international routes to Adelaide that were operational before the COVID-19 pandemic.
The airline will operate three weekly flights between Hong Kong and Adelaide on the modern Airbus A350-900, which accommodates 280 passengers. The flights will be scheduled seasonally until 27 March 2026, departing Adelaide every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
Economic Impact: Generating $32 Million Annually
The return of Cathay Pacific’s direct service is estimated to generate a substantial economic boost for South Australia, contributing approximately $17 million annually in tourism expenditure and $15 million in freight exports. Combined, this $32 million injection into the state’s economy is a significant milestone, reflecting the importance of the route in promoting tourism, trade, and international connectivity.
According to data from the South Australian Tourism Commission, the state’s Asian tourism market alone contributed $783 million to the visitor economy in the year ending December 2024, supporting over 8.3 million bed nights. Visitors from Hong Kong are particularly valuable, staying an average of 11 nights in Australia—nearly twice the length of other international tourists—resulting in higher spending and extended economic benefits.
Restoring Key International Connections Post-COVID
Cathay Pacific’s return to Adelaide is the latest in a series of international airlines re-establishing or commencing services at Adelaide Airport following the pandemic’s disruption. The South Australian Government, through the South Australian Tourism Commission and in partnership with Adelaide Airport, has actively worked to restore these vital international air links, recognizing their role in driving economic recovery and growth.
Other international carriers now serving Adelaide include:
- United Airlines (San Francisco – Adelaide) — the first-ever direct US route from South Australia, commencing December 2025
- Qatar Airways (Doha – Adelaide)
- Singapore Airlines (Singapore – Adelaide)
- Malaysia Airlines (Kuala Lumpur – Adelaide)
- Air New Zealand (Auckland – Adelaide)
- Fiji Airways (Nadi – Adelaide)
- Jetstar (Denpasar – Adelaide)
- Indonesia AirAsia (Denpasar – Adelaide)
- China Southern Airlines (Guangzhou – Adelaide)
- Emirates (Dubai – Adelaide)
- Qantas (Auckland – Adelaide)
Cathay Pacific’s resumption completes the return of all pre-pandemic international routes to the city.
Government Perspectives: Boosting Trade and Tourism
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas highlighted Cathay Pacific’s return as a testament to the state’s growing appeal for investment and global connectivity.
“Delivering a boon for tourism and trade, the reinstated route is estimated to generate $32 million for South Australia each year, driving appeal to both work and travel in our great State,” Premier Malinauskas said. He emphasized that the suite of international airlines flying into Adelaide reflects strategic, ongoing efforts by the government and stakeholders to position the state as a prime destination for visitors and business.
Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison echoed these sentiments, underscoring the significance of the milestone for the local tourism industry.
“This is a huge milestone for South Australia’s tourism industry, as it means all international routes flying into Adelaide before the COVID-19 outbreak are back – providing further connection to potential visitors globally,” Bettison said. She highlighted Cathay Pacific’s role in connecting South Australia’s unique attractions—including its pristine natural environments, acclaimed food and beverage offerings, and vibrant events calendar—to loyal Asian travelers.
Trade and Investment Minister Joe Szakacs stressed the commercial advantages tied to the route’s revival.
“The return of this route will provide long-term economic benefits for our state, including through an increase in high-value exports by plane to Hong Kong, which in the last 12 months exceeded $260 million,” he stated. Minister Szakacs noted that products such as wine, seafood, and hi-tech goods enjoy strong demand in Hong Kong, and the renewed service will facilitate easier access for local exporters to one of the world’s most dynamic markets.
Adelaide Airport Welcomes Cathay Pacific’s Return
Brenton Cox, Managing Director of Adelaide Airport, expressed enthusiasm about re-establishing the longstanding relationship with Cathay Pacific, which first began serving Adelaide in 1992.
“The airline has been one of our more enduring international partnerships for many years,” Cox remarked. He highlighted the benefits of the direct connection to Hong Kong, a major aviation hub, allowing passengers in South Australia to access an extensive global network across Asia, Europe, and beyond. Cox also anticipated that the resumed service would support inbound tourism growth and international education opportunities, which remain important sectors for the state.
Cathay Pacific’s Commitment to South Australia
Frosti Lau, Cathay Pacific’s Regional General Manager for the South West Pacific, shared his excitement about the airline’s return to Adelaide, noting a long history with the city and the region.
“We launched our first flight to the city over 30 years ago, and this was closely followed by our first group of cadet pilots entering Flight Training Adelaide,” Lau said. He described the new seasonal flights as opening up opportunities for residents and visitors alike to explore Hong Kong and destinations beyond, for leisure, business, or to reconnect with home.
Additionally, Cathay Pacific will leverage its world-leading cargo capabilities to facilitate the export of local produce and products to Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. This service is poised to support local businesses in expanding their reach to lucrative international markets.
In total, Cathay Pacific will operate close to 90 return flights per week between Hong Kong and eight destinations across Australia and New Zealand this summer, restoring all pre-pandemic routes to the region.
Importance of the Hong Kong-Adelaide Route
The Hong Kong-Adelaide air link is critical due to Hong Kong’s status as a major international transit and business hub. It connects South Australia not only to Asia but also to Europe, the Middle East, and North America through Cathay Pacific’s extensive network. This facilitates business travel, tourism, and trade, making it easier for South Australian companies to participate in the global marketplace.
Data from the South Australian Government highlights that air connectivity directly impacts the state’s tourism receipts, export potential, and overall economic prosperity. The resumption of Cathay Pacific’s flights is expected to stimulate these areas, creating sustainable growth and strengthening ties with Asia’s rapidly expanding economies.
Conclusion
Cathay Pacific’s return to Adelaide signifies a major step forward in restoring South Australia’s international aviation landscape post-COVID-19.
The direct flights from Hong Kong will bolster tourism, enhance trade opportunities, and support the state’s broader economic recovery. Supported by government initiatives, Adelaide Airport, and industry stakeholders, this development positions South Australia as a key player in the Asia-Pacific aviation network and global tourism market.
Travelers, businesses, and the local community stand to benefit from improved connectivity, expanded routes, and renewed access to global destinations. With all pre-pandemic international routes now reinstated, South Australia is poised for continued growth and success on the world stage.
