Lunar New Year Surge: HK Express Records 15% Growth with Rising Passenger Traffic to Seoul, Penang, and Jeju

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As the Lunar New Year festivities unfolded across the globe, HK Express recorded a notable 15% year-on-year increase in passenger traffic, solidifying its status as one of Asia’s fastest-growing carriers. Over 280,000 passengers were flown during the peak period, with Hong Kong’s robust outbound and inbound traffic playing a key role in the airline’s success.

The spike in passenger numbers during the Lunar New Year season can be attributed to the extended nine-day Spring Festival holiday in mainland China. This extended period provided an excellent opportunity for both domestic and international travel. According to the airline, passenger numbers from mainland China surged by more than 50% compared to last year, while Hong Kong-originating flights saw a rise of over 30%.

On 20 February, the airline achieved its busiest travel day of the period, marking a new single-day operational record with over 30,000 passengers carried. This milestone highlights the growing demand for HK Express services during the festive season and their ability to meet the peak travel rush.

Emerging Destinations Drive Growth

Several destinations across Asia saw impressive growth during the holiday period, further cementing HK Express’s reputation as a key player in regional travel. Penang, Malaysia, stood out with an impressive 118% increase in passenger traffic compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, the South Korean destinations of Jeju and Busan saw year-on-year growth of 83% and 65%, respectively.

South Korea’s popularity was evident, as Seoul continued to be one of the most sought-after routes, with the airline increasing its frequencies to meet the demand. Likewise, other popular destinations such as Bangkok, Taichung, and Hong Kong also experienced a surge in passengers, reinforcing the airline’s connectivity across Asia and its commitment to meeting rising travel demand during peak periods.

The booming demand for both outbound and inbound travel was a clear indication of how the region’s tourism industry continues to rebound post-pandemic. The ability to adjust flight schedules and increase frequencies to key destinations demonstrated HK Express’s agility in catering to growing travel preferences.

Inbound Traffic Increases Across Key Markets

Inbound travel to Hong Kong saw an increase of over 20% year-on-year, with more than 97,000 passengers arriving during the festive period. The strongest inbound markets were mainland China, Taiwan, and South Korea, reflecting the continuing trend of cross-border tourism. The recent expansion of the airline’s Chinese mainland network to six destinations contributed significantly to this growth, with inbound traffic from the mainland increasing by nearly 20%.

As tourism in Hong Kong continues to grow, the city remains a vibrant destination for international visitors. HK Express plays a pivotal role in facilitating this traffic, offering travelers more options to connect with the city’s cultural, culinary, and leisure offerings.

Expanding Transit Traffic and Connecting Passengers

Hong Kong International Airport’s role as a key regional transit hub was underscored during the Lunar New Year period. Transit traffic through the airport saw a significant expansion, with connecting passengers increasing by approximately 90% compared to last year. This surge highlights the vital role Hong Kong plays in the Greater Bay Area, connecting travelers from across Asia and beyond.

The high volume of transit passengers signals the growing importance of Hong Kong as a hub for international and regional connections. With its strategic location and well-developed infrastructure, the airport is perfectly positioned to serve as a critical gateway for travelers in the region.

HK Express’s Impact on Regional Tourism

The airline’s strong performance underscores a positive trend for the broader regional tourism sector, as more people opt to travel across Asia during the Lunar New Year period. With growing numbers of inbound and outbound travelers, HK Express has become an integral player in promoting regional connectivity and tourism.

As airlines continue to adjust to changing travel patterns, it’s clear that destinations like Seoul, Penang, Jeju, and Hong Kong will remain top choices for travelers in the coming years. The airline’s ability to meet peak demand through expanded services and increased frequencies reflects its commitment to serving the diverse needs of passengers across Asia.

Conclusion

The Lunar New Year season proved to be a highly successful period for HK Express, with the airline recording a significant 15% growth in passenger numbers and setting new operational records. From emerging destinations to increased inbound traffic, the airline’s performance highlights the continued growth of regional tourism and its central role in connecting Asia’s most popular destinations. As travel demand rises, HK Express’s ability to adapt and expand its services will continue to shape the future of Asian air travel.