Cathay Pacific is set to resume its direct flight service from Hong Kong to Adelaide, starting from 11 November 2025, re-establishing a vital air link that has been suspended since March 2020 due to the global pandemic. This reintroduction will mark the return of all international connections Adelaide had prior to COVID-19.
Flights will operate three times a week, facilitating travel and commerce between South Australia and Asia. The service will operate on the A350-900 aircraft with a capacity of 280 seats, introducing Premium Economy class for the first time on this route. The seasonal service will continue until 27 March 2026, departing Adelaide every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
The anticipated economic impact of the restored service is significant, with tourism-related activities expected to inject up to $17 million annually into the local economy. Additionally, freight exports via this route are projected to bring in another $15 million, totalling an estimated annual benefit of $32 million.
South Australia’s connection to its Asian markets is significant. In 2024, Asian travellers contributed $783 million to the state’s visitor economy, generating over 8.3 million bed nights. Hong Kong tourists notably stay an average of 11 nights – almost twice the duration of other international visitors.
The extensive network of Cathay Pacific not only spans across the Asia-Pacific but also includes destinations in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and North America, offering significant global connectivity.
This reinstatement has been a collaborative effort between the South Australian Tourism Commission and Adelaide Airport, focusing on re-establishing key international links to boost both tourism and trade.
This announcement coincides with the recent news of United Airlines starting direct flights from Adelaide to San Francisco beginning December 2025, a first for connections between South Australia and the USA.
South Australian Premier, Peter Malinauskas said, “Our State is being seen as a place to invest in, and Cathay Pacific is the latest global business to recognise this.”
“Delivering a boom for tourism and trade, the reinstated route is estimated to generate $32 million for South Australia each year, driving appeal to both work and travel in our great State.”
“The suite of international airlines set to fly directly into Adelaide is no coincidence, it is the result of constant hard work as well as developing a destination worth investing in.”
Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison commented, “This is a huge milestone for South Australia’s tourism industry, as it means all international routes flying into Adelaide before the COVID-19 outbreak are back – providing further connection to potential visitors globally.”
Cathay Pacific’s Regional General Manager South West Pacific, Frosti Lau, said, “In restarting this service, Cathay Pacific will offer close to 90 return flights per week between Hong Kong and eight destinations across Australia and New Zealand this summer, bringing back all pre-pandemic routes to the region.”
The restored Cathay Pacific service is expected to contribute a significant boost to the local economy by increasing tourism and facilitating trade and also enhance Adelaide’s connectivity to international hubs.
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