Hong Kong: Greater Bay Airlines to Launch B737-9 on Hong Kong-Sapporo Route in Late 2025

On December 2025, Greater Bay Airlines is expected to debut their first B737-9 aircraft which is a part of their ongoing growth. By the end of 2025, the low-cost carrier partner with Hong Kong International Airport is set to operate the new planes on the Hong Kong International to Sapporo Chitose routes. This is the first of many routes the airline plans to add, targeting reinforced presence in the Asia-pacific region in 2026.

Introducing the B737-9 Fleet and Premium Cabin Class

The addition of the B737-9 aircraft is a key component of Greater Bay Airlines’ fleet modernization. The new aircraft will feature a premium cabin class, which includes eight seats designed for enhanced comfort, alongside 189 seats in standard economy. This will allow the airline to offer passengers a more diverse range of options for both leisure and business travel.

The B737-9, a member of the Boeing 737 MAX family, is renowned for its fuel efficiency, longer range, and advanced technology, making it an ideal choice for the airline as it looks to increase its operations and expand its reach across the Asia-Pacific region. The carrier’s move to introduce a premium cabin class signals its commitment to improving service offerings while maintaining its low-cost model.

Fleet Expansion and Route Growth in the Asia-Pacific

With the arrival of the first two B737-9 units by the end of 2025, Greater Bay Airlines is poised to expand its network further. The airline plans to deploy the aircraft to various destinations within the Asia-Pacific region, starting with Sapporo Chitose in Japan. As the airline receives additional units in 2026, it will look to introduce more routes, strengthening its presence and providing greater connectivity across the region.

The expansion into the B737-9 fleet comes as part of a broader effort to increase flight frequencies and serve more international routes. The Asia-Pacific region continues to be a key growth market for both low-cost and full-service carriers, and Greater Bay Airlines aims to capture a larger share of this growing demand for air travel by offering efficient and comfortable options.

B737-9 Aircraft Orders and Future Deliveries

According to ch-aviation fleets data, Greater Bay Airlines has firm orders for fifteen B737-9s directly from Boeing, which were placed in 2023. While the original timeline for deliveries was set for August 2024, the deliveries have been delayed by more than a year. Despite the delays, the airline remains optimistic about the future, with plans to continue expanding its fleet as it enters a new phase of growth.

The first B737-9 (registered B-KWA; msn 64132) completed its most recent test flight over Seattle Boeing Field on October 2, 2025, a significant step toward its planned entry into service. The second aircraft (registered B-KWB; msn 64129) is expected to arrive shortly thereafter. As these new aircraft are introduced, Greater Bay Airlines will continue to operate its existing fleet of seven B737-800s, configured with a 189-seat all-economy layout.

Enhanced Connectivity Between Hong Kong and Japan

The initial route for the B737-9, connecting Hong Kong International with Sapporo Chitose, highlights Greater Bay Airlines’ focus on expanding its services to popular destinations in Japan. The route, which is set to begin by the end of 2025, will offer travelers from Hong Kong a more convenient and efficient option to visit Sapporo, one of Japan’s most popular tourist cities known for its ski resorts, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural attractions.

The Hong Kong to Sapporo route is expected to cater to both tourists and business travelers, offering a quicker and more comfortable travel option with the airline’s new B737-9 aircraft. The introduction of this route also positions Greater Bay Airlines as an important player in regional travel between Hong Kong and Japan, offering a competitive alternative to other regional carriers.

Greater Bay Airlines’ Vision for Future Growth

As Greater Bay Airlines continues to expand its fleet and network, the airline’s focus on providing affordable, comfortable, and efficient travel options is key to its success. By diversifying its fleet with the introduction of B737-9 aircraft and expanding its route offerings, the airline is well-positioned to meet the increasing demand for travel within the Asia-Pacific region.

The introduction of premium cabins on select flights further enhances the airline’s service offerings, catering to a broader range of passengers seeking both comfort and affordability. As the airline receives additional aircraft and expands its route network, Greater Bay Airlines will continue to strengthen its position as a key player in the regional aviation market.

Conclusion: Expanding Horizons for Greater Bay Airlines

Greater Bay Airlines has already begun influencing the competitive short-haul market while focusing on the arrival of the B737-9 and the new operations on the Asia-Pacific region. The growing destination network and focusing on lite, cheap, yet comfortable service rest assures the fact that the airlines will be bolstering their fleet. The airline is certain to help enrich the region in the check and provide the dominion for the advancement in Asia-Pacific air travel.