Hong Kong and Chongqing Welcome Greater Bay Airlines’ New Seasonal Route as Three Weekly Flights Boost Autumn Travel Across China: What Should Travellers Know?

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Hong Kong and Chongqing are set to become more closely connected this autumn as Greater Bay Airlines launches a new seasonal service linking Hong Kong International Airport with Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport. The new route, operating three times a week from 4 September to 16 October 2026, expands travel options between southern and southwestern China while supporting tourism, business travel and regional connectivity during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

The seasonal service marks another step in Greater Bay Airlines’ network expansion from its Hong Kong base, giving travellers a convenient direct option to one of China’s fastest-growing metropolitan destinations. Operating throughout early autumn, the flights are expected to serve leisure travellers, business passengers and those visiting friends and relatives.

Greater Bay Airlines Expands Its Mainland China Network

Greater Bay Airlines continues to strengthen its presence across mainland China by adding new destinations from Hong Kong.

The airline has been steadily expanding its regional network since commencing operations, focusing on destinations that support both tourism and commercial travel. The addition of Chongqing further broadens its domestic and regional offering while reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as one of Asia’s leading international aviation hubs.

For travellers based in Hong Kong, the new route provides another direct gateway into inland China without the need for connecting flights.

Three Weekly Flights During the Autumn Travel Season

The new Hong Kong-Chongqing route will operate three times each week between 4 September and 16 October 2026.

The seasonal schedule aligns with a period that typically sees increased domestic travel across China, including leisure holidays, cultural tourism and business activity following the summer peak.

By offering multiple weekly departures, Greater Bay Airlines provides travellers with greater flexibility when planning short breaks, extended holidays or business trips between the two cities.

Chongqing Continues to Grow as a Tourism Destination

Chongqing has become one of China’s most popular urban tourism destinations.

Situated in southwestern China, the municipality is known for its dramatic mountain landscape, the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, vibrant food culture and historic attractions. Visitors are increasingly drawn to Chongqing’s famous hotpot cuisine, riverside skyline, cable cars, ancient towns and easy access to the Three Gorges region.

The city also serves as an important gateway for exploring western China, making it attractive for both domestic and international visitors.

Hong Kong Remains a Leading Travel Gateway

Hong Kong continues to play a vital role as one of Asia’s busiest aviation and tourism centres.

The city attracts millions of international visitors every year through its combination of shopping, dining, cultural attractions, entertainment and business opportunities. Hong Kong International Airport also serves as a major transfer hub linking mainland China with destinations across Asia, Europe, North America and Oceania.

The new Chongqing service further strengthens Hong Kong’s extensive regional network while improving accessibility for travellers arriving from southwestern China.

Supporting Tourism and Business Travel

The seasonal route benefits both leisure and commercial travel markets.

Business travellers will gain another direct connection between two major economic centres, while tourists will enjoy easier access to attractions in both destinations. Families and passengers visiting friends and relatives will also benefit from additional capacity during the autumn travel season.

Direct flights reduce overall journey times and eliminate the need for transfers through other mainland Chinese airports, making travel more convenient.

Strengthening Regional Aviation Connectivity

Improved air connectivity remains an important driver of tourism growth across Asia.

New direct routes encourage visitor movement, increase destination accessibility and support hotels, restaurants, retailers and local tourism businesses. They also strengthen economic ties by facilitating meetings, conferences and investment between regional cities.

For Greater Bay Airlines, the seasonal operation represents another opportunity to expand its market presence while responding to demand during key travel periods.

What Travellers Can Expect

Passengers travelling on the new service will benefit from direct flights between two major cities with growing tourism appeal.

Whether planning a weekend city break in Chongqing or travelling from mainland China to experience Hong Kong’s attractions, the new route provides greater flexibility and additional travel choices during the autumn season.

Travellers are encouraged to book early, particularly around holiday periods when demand for regional air services traditionally increases.

Key Statistics

• New seasonal route: Hong Kong-Chongqing.
• Operating airline: Greater Bay Airlines.
• Frequency: Three flights per week.
• Service begins: 4 September 2026.
• Final seasonal flight: 16 October 2026.
• Departure airport: Hong Kong International Airport.
• Destination airport: Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport.

Chronological Tracker

• 4 September 2026: Greater Bay Airlines launches seasonal Hong Kong-Chongqing service.
• September-October 2026: Three weekly flights operate throughout the seasonal schedule.
• 16 October 2026: Final scheduled flight of the seasonal operation.

FAQ

When do the new Hong Kong-Chongqing flights begin?
The seasonal service starts on 4 September 2026.

How often will the route operate?
Greater Bay Airlines will operate three flights each week throughout the seasonal period.

How long will the seasonal service run?
Flights are scheduled to operate until 16 October 2026.

Key Dates

• 4 September 2026: Seasonal Hong Kong-Chongqing service begins.
• 16 October 2026: Final scheduled seasonal flight.

Conclusion

Greater Bay Airlines’ new seasonal route between Hong Kong and Chongqing strengthens regional connectivity during the 2026 autumn travel season. Operating three weekly flights for six weeks, the service offers travellers a convenient direct link between two of China’s most dynamic cities while supporting tourism, business travel and regional mobility. As demand for domestic and short-haul travel continues to grow, the new route further enhances Hong Kong’s position as a major aviation hub and provides additional opportunities for travellers exploring southwestern China.