Dragonair launches new service to Shanghai's Hongqiao Airport

16 daily flights between Pudong and Hong Kong further strengthen trade and economic ties between cities.

Dragonair on Wednesday launched new services to Hongqiao International Airport in Shanghai.

The Hongqiao service is a daily flight from Hong Kong operated by an Airbus A330 aircraft. With 16 daily flights between Pudong and Hong Kong, Dragonair now offers passengers the widest selection of travel options between Hong Kong and Shanghai, strengthening its role as a major carrier between Mainland China and Hong Kong.

Dragonair started operating chartered flights to Shanghai in 1988, and moved its operation to Pudong International Airport in October 2002, according to a Dragonair report.

The service to Hongqiao International Airport will take passengers closer to the city centre with connections to an extensive transportation network, including direct links to the high-speed railway, mass public transport and highways.

The new service follows an agreement between the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) and the Hong Kong SAR Government in July to add Shanghai Hongqiao as a destination for scheduled air services between Hong Kong and Mainland China.

The inaugural ceremony was hosted by Dragonair Chief Executive Officer Mr. James Tong. The guests of honour were Mr. Hu Ya Ming, Deputy Director General East China Regional Administration of Civil Aviation, Mr. Wang Guangdi, Vice President Shanghai Airport Authority, Mr. Patrick Chan, Director Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai HKSAR and Ms. Vivian Cheung, Deputy Vice President Shanghai-Hong Kong Airport Management Company Limited.

The event was celebrated with a lion dance performance followed by ribbon cutting and cake-cutting ceremonies. Every passenger on the inaugural flight between Hongqiao and Hong Kong also received a special commorative gift.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Tong said: “The launch of regular services between Hongqiao International Airport and Hong Kong International Airport marks an important milestone in the 25 years of Dragonair’s history and highlights the airline’s long-term commitment to linking Mainland China to Hong Kong.

“The new service further strengthens the trade and economic ties between the two cities. This will help to ensure Hong Kong retains its position as the major gateway to Mainland China, bringing greater convenience to travellers especially business travellers.”