Hong Kong Joins Australia’s Melbourne, and the Greater Bay Area in Opening New Pathways for Tourism and Business: Here’s How You Need To Know

Published on December 14, 2025

By: Paramita Sarkar

Melbourne Airport has just welcomed its 41st international carrier with the inaugural flight of Hong Kong Airlines from Hong Kong to Australia’s busiest 24-hour international gateway. The new service, which launched this morning, will operate three times a week, providing a significant boost to travel between Melbourne and one of Asia’s most dynamic regions. This announcement marks a key step in the airline’s growing international network.

What Happened?

Flight HK013, which landed at Melbourne Airport today, was met with a spectacular water cannon salute from the Aviation Rescue and Fire Fighting Service. The Airbus A330, operating the new route, is expected to bring more than 93,000 seats to the busy Melbourne-Hong Kong route annually. The service will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, further enhancing the availability of flights on what is already Melbourne’s fourth busiest international route, trailing only flights to Singapore, Auckland, and Denpasar.

When Did This Start?

The service officially launched today, marking a milestone for both Hong Kong Airlines and Melbourne Airport as they expand their international reach. With flights now taking place three times a week, the connection between Hong Kong and Melbourne will offer more convenience for travelers seeking to explore both cities and the surrounding regions. The flight is set to serve an important role in both tourism and business travel, strengthening ties between the two countries.

Where Is This Route Going?

The new Hong Kong Airlines flight directly connects Hong Kong to Melbourne, linking the vibrant city with Australia’s largest international gateway. The route is particularly beneficial for those traveling between Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area, and Australia. By operating with an Airbus A330, the service provides enhanced capacity for both passengers and freight, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to import and export goods between the two countries.

The new service is part of a broader effort to expand the relationship between Hong Kong and Australia. This move follows a recent expansion of bilateral air traffic rights between the two nations, allowing for more flights and enhanced connectivity. The addition of Hong Kong Airlines into Melbourne’s busy airspace highlights the ongoing growth of international travel and trade between Hong Kong and Australia.

Why Is This Important?

The arrival of Hong Kong Airlines at Melbourne Airport comes at a time when the airport is experiencing significant growth in international traffic. Melbourne Airport recorded its busiest-ever November for international travel in 2025, with over 1 million passengers traveling through the gateway. This represents a 6.9% increase in passenger numbers compared to the same month in 2024. The addition of Hong Kong Airlines further solidifies Melbourne Airport’s position as a major hub for international travelers, providing even more options for those seeking to travel to or from Asia and beyond.

The new flights are expected to open up numerous opportunities for both leisure and business travelers. Melbourne, known for its vibrant culture, culinary delights, and thriving arts scene, is an attractive destination for international tourists. In addition, with Hong Kong being one of Asia’s largest financial centers, the direct flights between the two cities will help facilitate business connections and trade. Furthermore, the unique seasons of Melbourne offer a perfect getaway for Hong Kong travelers looking to enjoy an alternative climate.

How Did This Happen?

The launch of Hong Kong Airlines flights to Melbourne was made possible through the expansion of the bilateral air services agreement between Hong Kong and Australia. This agreement, negotiated by the governments of both countries, allows for more flights and greater connectivity. The agreement has significantly benefited travelers and businesses, offering increased choices for flights between the two regions.

The airline’s new service also benefits from the support of Melbourne Airport, which has been working to accommodate growing international demand. The airport’s expansion plans, coupled with the addition of new carriers like Hong Kong Airlines, are expected to contribute millions of dollars to the local economy by attracting more tourists, business professionals, and international travelers.

What Does This Mean for Passengers?

For travelers, this new service brings more flight options and convenience. The three weekly flights will make it easier for passengers to travel between Melbourne and Hong Kong, reducing the need for connecting flights and offering more flexibility in travel schedules. The Airbus A330’s large capacity will also mean that passengers will have more choices in terms of seat availability, further enhancing the overall travel experience.

The arrival of Hong Kong Airlines also highlights the growing competition in the market, which can only be good news for consumers. As more airlines enter the market, there is greater potential for lower fares and improved service options. Passengers can expect enhanced travel experiences and more opportunities to explore Melbourne, Hong Kong, and the wider Greater Bay Area.

Looking Ahead: The Impact on Melbourne’s Travel and Economy

The ongoing expansion of international services at Melbourne Airport underscores the region’s importance as a global travel and business hub. The arrival of Hong Kong Airlines is just one example of how bilateral agreements and strategic airline partnerships can create new opportunities for growth and connectivity. As the airline industry continues to recover and expand, Melbourne’s role as a major international gateway will only continue to strengthen.

In the long term, the new Hong Kong Airlines service is expected to contribute significantly to the local economy, both through increased tourism and enhanced trade connections. As more flights between Hong Kong and Melbourne become available, the economic and cultural ties between the two regions are set to deepen.

A Bright Future for Hong Kong Airlines and Melbourne Airport

Hong Kong Airlines’ new service to Melbourne represents a major step forward in international air travel, bringing with it exciting new opportunities for passengers and businesses alike. The connection between Hong Kong, Australia, and the Greater Bay Area is poised to benefit from the expanded air traffic rights, offering more travel options and greater flexibility for those wishing to explore this dynamic part of the world.

With increasing demand for international travel and continued airport expansion, Melbourne Airport is set to remain a key player in the global aviation landscape. The launch of Hong Kong Airlines’ service is just one of many milestones in the airport’s journey toward becoming one of the world’s top international hubs.