Cathay Pacific has announced plans to launch direct flights between Hong Kong and Almaty, marking a significant step in strengthening connectivity between Hong Kong and Central Asia. The new service, expected to begin in the first quarter of 2027, will make Cathay Pacific the only airline offering nonstop flights between Hong Kong and Kazakhstan.

The announcement comes as Cathay Pacific joined a high-level business delegation to Central Asia led by Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), John Lee Ka-chiu. The visit focused on exploring new trade, tourism, and investment opportunities between Hong Kong and emerging markets across the region.

As part of the delegation, Cathay’s Chief Customer and Commercial Officer, Lavinia Lau, participated in meetings and events in Kazakhstan, highlighting the airline’s commitment to expanding Hong Kong’s global network and strengthening ties with Belt and Road partner countries.

Cathay Pacific plans to operate three weekly flights between Hong Kong and Almaty using its Airbus A330-300 widebody aircraft. The new route will provide travelers, businesses, and cargo operators with a direct and convenient connection between the two destinations.

Attending a ceremony alongside President of Almaty International Airport Goker Kose and Deputy Head of the Tourism Department of Almaty Akmaral Yeshanova today, Lau said: “Central Asia is a strategically important Belt and Road region that offers ample business opportunities. As Hong Kong’s home hub carrier, Cathay has aligned interests with the HKSAR Government in strengthening our connectivity with this emerging market.

“Last year, we launched direct flights to Urumqi in Northwestern China, a city whose close proximity to Central Asia extended our reach not only in the Chinese Mainland, but also to other key destinations along the Belt and Road. As we celebrate ’80 Years Together’ with our home city, we are excited to build on that momentum by announcing plans to operate direct flights between Hong Kong and Almaty, our first ever destination in Central Asia, fostering new opportunities for people, cargo and capital flow with this dynamic region.”

The airline’s expansion into Kazakhstan follows the successful launch of direct flights to Urumqi in Northwestern China last year. The route enhanced Cathay Pacific’s reach into key Belt and Road markets and created stronger connections between Hong Kong, Western China, and Central Asia.

As Cathay Pacific celebrates its 80th anniversary alongside its home city, the airline sees Almaty as an important addition to its growing network. The new route is expected to support the movement of travelers, trade, investment, and cargo while opening new opportunities for business collaboration across the region.

Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city and cultural centre, serves as a gateway to one of Central Asia’s fastest-growing economies. The country is known for its strong manufacturing, mining, and industrial sectors and remains Hong Kong’s largest trading partner in Central Asia.

The launch of direct Hong Kong to Almaty flights reflects the growing demand for stronger air connectivity between Asia and Central Asia. With trade, tourism, and investment continuing to expand across the region, the new route is expected to play a key role in bringing the two markets closer together while creating fresh opportunities for travelers and businesses alike.

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