From chef-curated flavors and destination-inspired experiences to a water cannon welcome across the Pacific, Delta’s inaugural Los Angeles–Hong Kong flight connected two global cities in memorable fashion.
For one evening, a little bit of Hong Kong arrived in Los Angeles.
Before customers boarded Delta’s inaugural flight to Hong Kong, they were treated to a preview of the destination itself. Chef-curated dishes inspired by Cantonese cuisine, destination-themed experiences and special commemorative gifts transformed the departure into more than just a flight launch.
It was the beginning of Delta’s newest Pacific connection.
A taste of Hong Kong
Throughout LAX, customers experienced the flavors, culture and energy that make Hong Kong one of Asia’s most dynamic destinations.
No one knows travel quite like Delta people, which is why we’ve curated a guide to help you discover the best that Hong Kong has to offer. Unsure of where to stay? Want to know the best way to get around the city? Just go ahead and book that flight – we’ll help take care of the planning.
Special activations featuring acclaimed Hong Kong–born chef Jereme Leung brought a taste of the city to life at the Delta One Lounge and Delta Sky Club, while customers received custom city guides and exclusive “Love HKG” tote bags designed for the inaugural flight.
At the gate, a ribbon-cutting ceremony and remarks marked the official launch of daily nonstop service between Los Angeles and Hong Kong.
A flight with personal meaning
The inaugural carried special significance for Delta A350 First Officer Victor Ngai, a Hong Kong native who welcomed customers onboard before departure.
His journey reflected the spirit behind the route itself: connecting people to the places that matter most.
“This flight is incredibly personal to me. I grew up in Hong Kong, watching planes takeoff and land from the old Kai Tak Airport near my elementary school, which sparked my passion for aviation at a young age,” said Victor. “To now serve as First Officer on Delta’s inaugural flight from Los Angeles back to my hometown is a true full-circle moment. I’m deeply proud to be part of the crew launching this route, reconnecting two cities that mean so much to me and helping customers experience the journey in a meaningful way with Delta.”
Behind the scenes, teams across Airport Customer Service, Flight Operations, In-Flight Service, TechOps, Network Planning, Cargo, Revenue Management and Global Sales, and more, worked tirelessly to help make the route a reality.
Welcomed across the Pacific
When the aircraft arrived in Hong Kong, a water cannon salute greeted Delta’s newest international service.
Airport officials, tourism partners, local media and Delta representatives gathered to celebrate the arrival and the beginning of a new nonstop connection between Los Angeles and Hong Kong.
More Than a New Route
Today, Delta is the largest global carrier at LAX, operating over 160 peak-day departures to 61 destinations. Hong Kong joins recent additions including Melbourne and the return of Shanghai, further strengthening Delta’s Pacific network and expanding options for customers traveling across Asia.
As the inaugural flight departed Los Angeles and touched down in Hong Kong, it marked more than the launch of a new route. It represented the countless Delta people, partners and communities who helped make the connection possible.
And for customers on board, it marked the start of their next adventure.
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