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C919 passenger jet makes historic commercial debut in Hong Kong

Hong Kong marked a milestone on 1 January 2025 as the first commercial flight of the C919 passenger jet, developed in China, landed at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). Operated by China Eastern Airlines, the flight inaugurates daily services between Shanghai Hongqiao and HKIA.

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With much fanfare, Hong Kong celebrated a historic moment on 1 January 2025 as the inaugural commercial flight of China’s domestically developed C919 passenger jet arrived at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).

Operated by China Eastern Airlines, the C919 has begun daily round-trip flights between Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport and HKIA, marking a new era for China’s aviation industry and Hong Kong’s global aviation hub status.

The arrival of the narrow-body jet was commemorated with a water cannon salute and a welcoming ceremony attended by Hong Kong’s Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mable Chan. Speaking at the event, Chan highlighted the significance of the flight, calling it a testament to the innovation and growth of China’s aviation sector.

“We hope that through this scheduled commercial flight, we can bring this historic innovation breakthrough in the Mainland’s production of civil aviation aircraft to our Hong Kong citizens, as well as to the international visitors coming to Hong Kong,” Chan stated.

The C919 aircraft receives a water salute at Hong Kong International Airport and warm welcome by Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan (first left).

Strategic aviation opportunities for Hong Kong

Chan outlined three areas where Hong Kong could leverage its strengths: aircraft maintenance, training, and leasing. HKIA’s established maintenance infrastructure positions it to support China-made aircraft.

Meanwhile, the Hong Kong International Aviation Academy is exploring expanding training to include C919-specific programmes. Additionally, Hong Kong’s favourable tax regime and financial systems present opportunities in aircraft finance leasing, supporting international expansion for China-made planes.

Chan thanked the Civil Aviation Administration of China for its support, emphasising that these flights offer Hong Kong residents a unique opportunity to experience China’s aviation advancements.

Advancing HKIA and Airport City projects

This milestone aligns with Hong Kong’s broader aviation aspirations. On 28 November 2024, the city commissioned its Three-Runway System (3RS), boosting HKIA’s passenger and cargo capacity.

By 2035, the system aims to handle 120 million passengers and 10 million tonnes of cargo annually, solidifying HKIA’s position as a global aviation leader.

Beyond its logistical roles, HKIA is evolving into an “Airport City,” featuring new initiatives like the AsiaWorld-Expo Phase 2, a yacht bay, and cultural projects.

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