Cathay Pacific Returns to South Australia, Reconnecting Adelaide to Asia: What New Updates You Need to Know

Cathay Pacific, one of Asia’s leading international airlines, is set to resume direct flights from Hong Kong to Adelaide starting Tuesday, 11 November 2025.

This move restores a critical air link for South Australia, reconnecting the state to major Asian tourism and trade markets and marking the completion of reinstating all international routes to Adelaide that were operational before the COVID-19 pandemic.

The airline will operate three weekly flights between Hong Kong and Adelaide on the modern Airbus A350-900, which accommodates 280 passengers. The flights will be scheduled seasonally until 27 March 2026, departing Adelaide every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.

The return of Cathay Pacific’s direct service is estimated to generate a substantial economic boost for South Australia, contributing approximately $17 million annually in tourism expenditure and $15 million in freight exports. Combined, this $32 million injection into the state’s economy is a significant milestone, reflecting the importance of the route in promoting tourism, trade, and international connectivity.

According to data from the South Australian Tourism Commission, the state’s Asian tourism market alone contributed $783 million to the visitor economy in the year ending December 2024, supporting over 8.3 million bed nights. Visitors from Hong Kong are particularly valuable, staying an average of 11 nights in Australia—nearly twice the length of other international tourists—resulting in higher spending and extended economic benefits.

Cathay Pacific’s return to Adelaide is the latest in a series of international airlines re-establishing or commencing services at Adelaide Airport following the pandemic’s disruption. The South Australian Government, through the South Australian Tourism Commission and in partnership with Adelaide Airport, has actively worked to restore these vital international air links, recognizing their role in driving economic recovery and growth.

Other international carriers now serving Adelaide include:

Cathay Pacific’s resumption completes the return of all pre-pandemic international routes to the city.

South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas highlighted Cathay Pacific’s return as a testament to the state’s growing appeal for investment and global connectivity.

Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison echoed these sentiments, underscoring the significance of the milestone for the local tourism industry.

Trade and Investment Minister Joe Szakacs stressed the commercial advantages tied to the route’s revival.

Brenton Cox, Managing Director of Adelaide Airport, expressed enthusiasm about re-establishing the longstanding relationship with Cathay Pacific, which first began serving Adelaide in 1992.

Frosti Lau, Cathay Pacific’s Regional General Manager for the South West Pacific, shared his excitement about the airline’s return to Adelaide, noting a long history with the city and the region.

Additionally, Cathay Pacific will leverage its world-leading cargo capabilities to facilitate the export of local produce and products to Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. This service is poised to support local businesses in expanding their reach to lucrative international markets.

In total, Cathay Pacific will operate close to 90 return flights per week between Hong Kong and eight destinations across Australia and New Zealand this summer, restoring all pre-pandemic routes to the region.

The Hong Kong-Adelaide air link is critical due to Hong Kong’s status as a major international transit and business hub. It connects South Australia not only to Asia but also to Europe, the Middle East, and North America through Cathay Pacific’s extensive network. This facilitates business travel, tourism, and trade, making it easier for South Australian companies to participate in the global marketplace.

Data from the South Australian Government highlights that air connectivity directly impacts the state’s tourism receipts, export potential, and overall economic prosperity. The resumption of Cathay Pacific’s flights is expected to stimulate these areas, creating sustainable growth and strengthening ties with Asia’s rapidly expanding economies.

Cathay Pacific’s return to Adelaide signifies a major step forward in restoring South Australia’s international aviation landscape post-COVID-19.

The direct flights from Hong Kong will bolster tourism, enhance trade opportunities, and support the state’s broader economic recovery. Supported by government initiatives, Adelaide Airport, and industry stakeholders, this development positions South Australia as a key player in the Asia-Pacific aviation network and global tourism market.

Travelers, businesses, and the local community stand to benefit from improved connectivity, expanded routes, and renewed access to global destinations. With all pre-pandemic international routes now reinstated, South Australia is poised for continued growth and success on the world stage.