Hong Kong Airlines launches direct flights to Vientiane, enhancing Belt and Road Connectivity

Hong Kong Airlines launched the direct service to Vientiane, Laos on 27 April 2024, further boosting its expanding network in the region. The introduction of the Vientiane service also underscores Hong Kong Airlines’ commitment to strengthen connectivity in the Belt and Road markets, while promoting travel and trade between participating countries.

Using Airbus A320 aircraft, Hong Kong Airlines operates weekly flights between Hong Kong International Airport and Vientiane Wattay International Airport in Laos, offering business and leisure travellers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the wonders of this captivating country.

Strategically located in the heart of Southeast Asia, bordering China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Myanmar, Laos is seen as an important country in the context of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, linking Southwest China and Southeast Asia, facilitating economic cooperation, trade and tourism between the two regions.

To celebrate the launch of this new route, a simple ceremony was held at the Hong Kong International Airport, officiated by Mr Gary Zhan, President of Hong Kong Airlines, Mr Saenchonghack Ammala, Consul General, Consulate General of Laos in Hong Kong, Mr Kenethaburi Soubanh, Consul, Consulate General of Laos in Hong Kong, Mr Michael Yuen, Assistant Director-General of Civil Aviation (Air Services and Safety Management) and Mr Ricky Chong, Assistant General Manager, Air Network Development of the Airport Authority Hong Kong.

Speaking at the inaugural flight celebration, Mr Gary Zhan, President of Hong Kong Airlines said: “Operating routes along the Belt and Road Initiative is strategically important for Hong Kong Airlines. Over the years, we have been operating scheduled flights to destinations along the Belt and Road, including Denpasar in Indonesia, Bangkok in Thailand, Seoul in Korea and over 10 cities in Mainland China. With the addition of Vientiane service, Hong Kong Airlines will continue to contribute to the development and strengthening of the Belt and Road Initiative by fostering connectivity and promoting collaboration.

“In fact, since our restructuring was completed in last April, we have regained a healthy operating track over the last year and reconnected with the world by gradually resuming routes and opening new destinations. We have been actively expanding our fleet and recruiting locally and globally to meet the demands of our business recovery and growth. Currently, our route network covers close to 30 destinations#, and the average passenger load factor has returned to 85%.”

Hong Kong Airlines’ flight schedule* between Hong Kong and Vientiane is as follows (All times local):

Route	Flight Number	Departure	Arrival	Frequency
HKG – VTE	HX562	14:55	16:20	Sat
VTE – HKG	HX563	17:20	20:40	Sat

Laos boasts stunning natural landscapes, cultural heritages, and historical sites which attract a growing number of tourists. The country’s lush jungles, cascading waterfalls, picturesque mountains and pristine national parks such as Phou Hin Boun and Nam Et-Phou Louey, remain relatively untouched by mass tourism, making Laos an attractive destination for those seeking authentic experiences. Laos has managed to preserve its traditional culture and way of life, where visitors can explore ancient temples such as the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Luang Prabang, with its beautifully preserved Buddhist monasteries and remarkable architecture.

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