Return to Stories

Cathay Pacific welcomes Policy Address measures to boost Hong Kong’s position as a ‘super-connector’

Cathay Pacific welcomes the commitment made by the Hong Kong Government to grow Hong Kong’s role as the region’s “super-connector”, which will ensure the city’s long-term competiveness as a major aviation hub and international logistics centre, as outlined in the Policy Address given yesterday by the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR, Mr CY Leung.

“Both Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon are pleased that the Government has reaffirmed its support for the Belt and Road Initiative, which has great potential to strengthen the Hong Kong hub through the development of new air services,” said a spokesperson. 

“In March, Cathay Pacific will commence operations to Israel and we hope the Government will continue to seek to discuss Air Services Agreements with other countries along the Initiative’s routes.” 

Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong’s home carrier for more than seven decades, also welcomed the agreement signed by the Hong Kong International Aviation Academy and the École Nationale de l’Aviation Civile (ENAC – National School of Civil Aviation) of France to jointly nurture aviation professionals for Hong Kong and the region, in addition to supporting the Government’s efforts to open more Economic and Trade Offices around the world as well as liaison units in Mainland China. 

Both airlines also support the planned establishment of an air accident investigation authority under the Transport and Housing Bureau to comply with the new requirement of the International Civil Aviation Organisation. The proposal to amend the Inland Revenue Ordinance to create a dedicated tax regime for offshore aircraft leasing businesses in Hong Kong is also welcomed. 

Furthermore, as long-standing members of the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) community, the airlines look forward to the publication of the “Development and Conservation of Lantau” blueprint, which will include outlining the plans for developing the Airport North Commercial District, Tung Chung New Town and the boundary crossing facilities island of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge.