Hong Kong-based major international airline Cathay Pacific has announced that, with effect from July 1, it will increase the number of its flights between its home base and Johannesburg. Under the new schedule, it will operate a return flight between the two centres every day of the week, instead of the current schedule of five flights each week.

“The increase in flights between Johannesburg and Hong Kong reflects our commitment to meeting the growing demand for travel between South Africa and Asia,” explains Cathay Pacific Regional GM: South Asia, Middle East and Africa Rakesh Raicar. “With the expanded schedule, we are offering our customers greater flexibility and convenience, whether they are travelling for business or leisure.”

The flights will be operated with Airbus A350-900 airliners, outfitted in three classes, namely Business, Premium Economy, and Economy. Business class is equipped with lie-flat seats/beds. Passengers will be able, through the airline’s Hong Kong hub, to connect to flights to destinations across Asia and Australasia, including mainland China, South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Australia and New Zealand.     

The increase in the number of flights will also increase the air cargo capacity on the route. Consequently, the airline will be able to provide more priority shipment solutions, to address the increasing demand for such services. These will especially benefit courier services, mail and the shipment of perishables.

“Hong Kong remains a vibrant hub for global connectivity, providing seamless onward connections to key destinations across the world,” he highlights. “We look forward to welcoming more customers on board and delivering the exceptional service that Cathay Pacific is known for.”

To expand its global network, and upgrade its services and facilities, Cathay Pacific is investing more than HK100-billion (about $12.75-billion) into its fleet, airliner cabins, airport lounges and digital innovations. The carrier is expanding its global network, and plans to be connected to 100 passenger destinations in the near future.