Cathay seeks to block Jetstar HK launch

Cathay seeks to block Jetstar HK launch
By admin


Jetstar Hong Kong is forging ahead with its plan to be operational by the end of the year, but faces a significant obstacle in the form of flag carrier Cathay Pacific.

The low cost carrier, a joint venture between Qantas, China Eastern Airlines and Shun Tak Holdings, took a step towards the start of operations with the official lodgement of its Air Transport License Application (ATLA) on Friday.

However, Cathay confirmed it will object to the application, insisting the airline’s levels of foreign ownership contravene Hong Kong laws.

“Putting some of Hong Kong’s valuable and limited air traffic rights into the hands of a carrier that is controlled by a foreign airline would also be very damaging to the local aviation industry and the Hong Kong economy,” a statement said.

It will issue its response to the application within the allocated two week period.

Meanwhile, Jetstar Hong Kong appointed Shun Tak managing director, Pansy Ho, as its new chairman in a move expected to deliver enhanced local expertise, according to chief executive, Edward Lau.

“Jetstar Hong Kong is delighted to welcome Ms Ho as chairman,” he said. “Her leadership will help us strengthen and foster Jetstar Hong Kong to best cater to the needs and development of the local travel market.”

Lau declared that Hong Kong is on the brink of a low cost “revolution” set to mimic the shift in Japan’s aviation landscape.

“Twelve months into domestic LCC operations in Japan and the impact of successful LCC models like Jetstar is clearly evident.

“Jetstar Hong Kong is focusing on being this influential instigator of change in Hong Kong.”

Recent research of Hong Kong residents found that 84% would welcome more low cost carriers to the local aviation landscape, with 70% planning to travel with an LCC over the next 12 months.

Low cost carriers currently represent just 6% of all air capacity through Hong Kong International Airport.

Latest News

  • Destinations
  • Tour Operators

Mat McLachlan Battlefield Tours advises final call for Anzac Day 2025

Mat McLachlan Battlefield Tours has advised that the final call for Anzac Day 2025 is on 31 January 2025 with pre-registration also available for Anzac Day 2026. Travellers are encouraged to book their spot for either the 10-day Anzac Day on the Western Front departing on 19 April from Paris or the 8-day Anzac Day […]

  • Destinations
  • Hotels

Two destinations to visit in Mexico for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching and here are two romantic getaway destinations in Mexico to make any traveller’s day with their special someone even better. Casona Roma Norte, Mexico City This Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to visit Mexico City, as the streets come alive with roses, heartfelt gifts, and the city basks in […]

  • Aviation
  • Luxury

Emirates debuts new uniform for Premium and VIP Passenger Services team

Emirates has debuted a new uniform designed for its Premium & VIP Passengers Services team, who are responsible for the seamless transfer of VIPs through Dubai International Airport. The new uniform has echoes of the iconic Emirates cabin crew look, however, exclusively represents Emirates’ elite unit that caters to high profile customers. A new look […]

  • Appointments
  • News

BEIA appoints Rachel Cook as its new chair

The Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) Approved Professional Conference Organisers (PCO) Group has appointed Rachel Cook as its new chair. Cook is the business director of Conference Innovators (CI) and since joining CI 20 years ago has been instrumental in the company’s continuing growth and success. She plays a pivotal role in building and supporting […]

  • Hotels

Gaya Island Resort unveils its Wildlife Wonders package

Gaya Island Resort has unveiled its Wildlife Wonders package, a meticulously crafted 4-day, 3-night adventure designed for nature enthusiasts eager to discover the island’s rich biodiversity. The resort is nestled on the tranquil shores of Pulau Gaya, the largest island in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park just off Kota Kinabalu. Its location makes it the […]

  • News

New Caledonia is open and ready for business as Smartraveller downgrades warning

Eight months after the civil unrest, the South Pacific destination of New Caledonia has reopened and is ready to welcome Australian tourists. Smartraveller has recently downgraded its travel advice to the destination following the removal of the nation’s curfew on the 2nd of December. The island is currently rated as amber – ‘exercise a high […]

  • Business Travel
  • Hotels

Atura Wellington unveils newly refurbished rooms in the New Zealand hotel

Atura Wellington, the former Thorndon Hotel by Rydges, has unveiled its newly refurbished rooms in the New Zealand hotel. The rooms were completed following a full refurbishment of all public spaces as part of a broader redevelopment plan. All 108 guest rooms have now been upgraded. The hotel is in the historic Thorndon neighbourhood and […]