Published on
September 23, 2025
By: Paramita Sarkar
Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has officially announced the suspension of all passenger flights for 36 hours due to Typhoon Ragasa, one of the strongest storms of the year. The airport will be closed from 8:00 PM on September 23, 2025, until 8:00 AM on September 25, 2025, as the typhoon makes its way toward Hong Kong. The closure has resulted in widespread flight cancellations, affecting several major international airlines including Cathay Pacific, Qantas Airways, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, and many others.
This temporary shutdown is unprecedented in recent times and marks a significant disruption to air travel at Hong Kong’s busiest airport. Typhoon Ragasa, classified as a Category 5 super typhoon, is expected to bring hurricane-force winds and heavy rain to Hong Kong, leading to dangerous conditions for both passengers and aviation personnel. Hong Kong’s Airport Authority has urged travelers to check with airlines for updates on flight status and avoid heading to the airport unless absolutely necessary.
Which Airlines Are Affected?
The following is a detailed list of some of the airlines that have canceled flights departing from Hong Kong International Airport due to Typhoon Ragasa:
| Airline | Flight Number | Destination | Cancelled Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cathay Pacific | CX 928 | Chongqing | 13:35, September 23 |
| Qantas Airways | QF 128 | Sydney | 19:30, September 23 |
| Emirates | EK 383 | Dubai | 19:00, September 23 |
| Hainan Airlines | HU 8209 | Nanjing | 14:20, September 23 |
| Hong Kong Airlines | HX 1824 | Taipei | 13:30, September 23 |
| Hong Kong Airlines | HX 216 | Nanjing | 14:40, September 23 |
| Cathay Pacific | CX 171 | Perth | 15:00, September 23 |
| Qantas Airways | QF 030 | Melbourne | 20:05, September 23 |
| Cathay Pacific | CX 336 | Beijing/PEK | 15:00, September 23 |
| Hong Kong Airlines | HX 548 | Da Nang | 14:30, September 23 |
| Cathay Pacific | CX 751 | Bangkok | 14:30, September 23 |
| Emirates | EK 383 | Dubai | 19:00, September 23 |
| Singapore Airlines | SQ 883 | Singapore | 14:25, September 23 |
| Hong Kong Airlines | HX 1826 | Taipei | 15:25, September 23 |
| Cathay Pacific | CX 502 | Osaka/Kansai | 16:30, September 23 |
| Hong Kong Airlines | HX 759 | Bangkok | 22:55, September 23 |
| Cathay Pacific | CX 6130 | Chongqing | 14:50, September 23 |
| Cathay Pacific | CX 972 | Taipei | 16:55, September 23 |
| Qantas Airways | QF 4223 | Paris | 22:05, September 23 |
This is only a partial list of the ongoing flight cancellations based on the information available in Hong Kong International Airport. Airlines are continuing to update passengers on new cancellations as the storm nears.
Why Are Flights Being Canceled?
The decision to cancel flights is a precautionary measure due to the hazardous conditions Typhoon Ragasa is expected to bring. With sustained winds of over 270 km/h and the risk of storm surges, visibility will be significantly reduced, making it unsafe for both takeoff and landing. The airport closure ensures the safety of passengers, crew, and airport staff.
In addition to high winds, the typhoon is expected to bring heavy rainfall, which could lead to flooding at the airport and in surrounding areas. These weather conditions create dangerous travel scenarios, particularly for international and regional flights.
When Will Hong Kong Airport Reopen?
Operations at Hong Kong International Airport are scheduled to resume on September 25, 2025, at 8:00 AM, once the typhoon has passed. However, given the magnitude of the storm, passengers should remain flexible as delays and additional cancellations are likely even after the airport reopens. Airlines are working on rescheduling affected passengers, and further disruptions may occur as the airport works through the backlog of canceled flights.
What Should Travelers Do?
Travelers affected by the cancellations should immediately contact their airlines for the latest updates and rebooking information. Many airlines are waiving rebooking fees and offering alternative flight options. It is crucial for passengers to stay informed via official channels, including airline websites and Hong Kong Airport’s official communication platforms.
Hong Kong International Airport has set up a range of services for passengers who may need assistance during the shutdown, including temporary seating areas, mobile charging stations, and provisions for food and water. Passengers are advised to avoid heading to the airport unless they have confirmed alternative travel plans.
Unprecedented Disruptions in Hong Kong Travel
The closure of Hong Kong International Airport for 36 hours due to Typhoon Ragasa represents an extraordinary disruption to international and regional air travel. Airlines including Cathay Pacific, Qantas Airways, Emirates, Hainan Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, and more have canceled flights, leaving thousands of travelers stranded or with altered travel plans.
Passengers are advised to monitor their airlines and the Hong Kong Airport website for further updates. While the airport is set to reopen on September 25, significant delays are expected as airlines work through the backlog of cancellations. Travelers should remain patient and flexible, as the full impact of Typhoon Ragasa continues to unfold..
Source: Official website of Hong Kong International Airport
