Dragonair to inaugurate Tokyo Service April 2, 2004

Dragonair is to inaugurate services to Tokyo's Narita Airport on April 2, one day after visa-free access to Japan is granted to travellers from Hong Kong.

The airline will operate seven flights a week: twice on Fridays and daily except Saturday.

"The timing of our launch is fortuitous, as it coincides with the new policy of visa-free access to Japan," said Chief Executive Officer Stanley Hui.

"This, combined with the fact that Japan has an initiative to attract more visitors to its shores over the coming years, means the country will become an even hotter destination for travel from Hong Kong, and Dragonair will be there to help serve that demand.

"Japan is also a key source market for the Hong Kong tourism industry. Our service will provide travellers from Japan to Hong Kong with more options, and will help in boosting the SAR's profile."

Mr. Hui noted that the attractive timings of the new service: "All our flights depart Hong Kong for Tokyo in the morning, making them attractive not only to business people but to leisure travellers looking to maximise their time in Japan. Return flights depart Tokyo in the afternoon, again providing greater convenience to all travellers."

The route will be served by Airbus A330s, with 54 Business Class and 230 Economy Class seats, and will also carry freight.

"We are very much looking forward to the touchdown of the dragon in the Japanese capital," said Mr. Hui.