Hong Kong Airlines will launch service between Hong Kong and Lijiang three times weekly from 8 September 2025. As the sole local carrier operating this route, the airline will provide travellers with a convenient, direct link to explore this captivating ancient city in Yunnan.
Located in the northwestern part of Yunnan Province, Lijiang is an important hub on the ancient Silk Road and the Tea Horse Road. With its profound historical heritage, it has long been designated as a National Historical and Cultural City of China. Its unique high-altitude plateau geography creates a pleasant, spring-like climate all year round, with autumn and spring being particularly scenic, making it a highly sought-after destination for both domestic and international tourists.
Hong Kong Airlines said it is committed to expanding its route network to meet market demand. Following the launch of services to Hulunbuir and Xi’an, Lijiang becomes the airline’s third new destination in mainland China this year. This move aligns with the company’s strategy to continuously develop its mainland China network and providing travellers with more diverse travel options.
The new route will be operated by Airbus A320 aircraft, while the flight schedule is designed not only to suit the needs of leisure and business travellers, but also to facilitate convenient connections for transit passengers travelling on the airline’s long-haul routes, such as Sydney and Vancouver, thereby strengthening Hong Kong’s position as a leading international aviation hub.
AirAsia launching two direct routes to Pontianak in West Kalimantan
AirAsia Malaysia said it was launching two new direct routes connecting Kuala Lumpur and Kuching to Pontianak, the capital city of West Kalimantan, Indonesia with AirAsia as the only airline operating international flights to the city starting 12 September 2025. This expansion follows AirAsia’s rapid growth in Indonesia including the recent launch of the Kuala Lumpur-Palembang route in July and the upcoming Kuala Lumpur-Semarang in September. With the introduction of Pontianak, AirAsia Malaysia will operate to a total of 17 destinations in Indonesia through 223 weekly flights between the two countries, solidifying its position as the airline with the widest network serving Indonesia.
The launch of these new routes strengthens regional connectivity and supports both government targets, including Malaysia’s goal to attract 4.3 million Indonesian tourists in 2025 and Sarawak’s target of five million visitor arrivals by year-end. It also aims to contribute to Indonesia’s national target of 16 million international arrivals with Malaysia remaining one of its top source markets.
Bapak Drs. Ria Norsan, West Kalimantan Governor said: “We are delighted with AirAsia’s decision to further connect West Kalimantan with Kuala Lumpur and Kuching. These new direct routes will not only facilitate easier access for travellers but also bolster trade, investment and tourism flows. West Kalimantan stands ready to welcome more Malaysian visitors while providing convenient access for Indonesians seeking business opportunities, leisure travel and medical services in Sarawak and Kuala Lumpur.”
Azizul Zekri bin Abd Rahim, Consul of Malaysia in Pontianak said: “This new connectivity marks a pivotal moment in fostering stronger bilateral ties between Malaysia and Indonesia, particularly West Kalimantan. With Visit Malaysia 2026 on the horizon, this expansion comes at the perfect moment to further boost tourism, foster cultural exchange and enhance regional ties between both nations. It will ease the movement of people, stimulate bilateral business growth and offer cultural enrichment between both countries.”
Captain Fareh Mazputra, AirAsia Malaysia CEO said: “As the low-cost airline with the widest international network operating in Indonesia, we are proud to further expand our extensive network with these direct connections to Pontianak. The strong demand for travel between Malaysia and West Kalimantan has driven us to enhance connectivity, making it easier and more affordable for people to travel for business, tourism and medical purposes. By launching flights from our main hub in Kuala Lumpur and Kuching, we are providing greater convenience and flexibility for our guests, while contributing to the tourism growth and economic development of both Malaysia and Indonesia.”
