Australian Airlines launches in Hong Kong

Australia's newest airline, Australian Airlines, officially launched its service from Hong Kong to Cairns, Australia, today.

At an inaugural ceremony at Hong Kong International Airport, Australian Airlines Chief Executive Officer Denis Adams was joined by Dr. David Pang, Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong Airport Authority, Albert Lam, JP, Director-General of Civil Aviation Department Hong Kong and David O'Leary, Consul-General of the Australian Consulate-General Hong Kong.

Mr. Adams said, "The launch of Australian Airlines in Hong Kong today marks an historic moment for aviation and tourism in Hong Kong. Australian Airlines has selected Hong Kong as one of the key routes in our first phase of operation as we believe that Hong Kong plays a critical role as a regional hub for Asia Pacific."

He added, "It's not every day that you can create a new airline. We have a unique opportunity here. In terms of our model of operation and service, we believe Australian Airlines is a world first. Our lower operating costs will allow us to serve markets from which Qantas and other airlines have had to withdraw, while our style of service on these routes will be second to none."

Dr. David Pang, Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong Airport Authority, said "We congratulate Australian Airlines for their foresight in developing this full service leisure carrier and bringing it to Hong Kong and other important markets in the region.

"Queensland has long been a popular travel destination for Hong Kong vacationers, and this new direct route to Cairns and onward connection to the Gold Coast are welcome additions to our airport network.

"We also appreciate that Australian Airlines recognizes the importance of Hong Kong as a regional hub and a gateway to Mainland China, one of Australia's fastest growing source of tourists. Through Hong Kong International Airport, Australian Airlines will make the beautiful state of Queensland even more accessible to this exciting and important new market."

Australian Airlines offers a full inflight service, including hot meals and snacks, inflight entertainment and modern comfortable seating. As an inbound operation, the meals and service will also reflect the different cultures of the customers.

Mr Adams acknowledged the support of Australian Airlines' industry partners in the lead up to the launch, and in particular, the Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department, Tourism Queensland and the Australian Tourist Commission.

"I'd also like to thank the Australian Airlines team for their hard work and dedication. We have a committed and enthusiastic group of people both in the air and on the ground and we will continue to work together with our partners to maximise the opportunities that Australian Airlines will provide," he said.

Services between Hong Kong and Cairns commence on November 22, with three weekly return flights on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday.

Australian Airlines also operates:

· Daily return services between Nagoya and Cairns;

· Daily return services between Osaka and Cairns;

· 3 weekly return services between Fukuoka and Cairns (Monday, Thursday, Sunday);

· 3 weekly return services between Singapore and Cairns (Monday, Thursday, Saturday);

· 3 weekly return services between Taipei and Cairns (Wednesday, Friday, Sunday);

· Daily connecting flight between Cairns and the Gold Coast for international passengers

Initially operating a fleet of four Boeing 767-300 aircraft, the Australian Airlines fleet will increase to 12 aircraft within the next two years.

Australian Airlines is wholly owned by Qantas Airways Limited but operated independently and managed separately.