Tourism and trade boom with more Hong Kong to Adelaide flights this summer

South Australian exporters and tourism operators will soon have even more access to international markets with Cathay Pacific to increase its direct flights to Adelaide.
 
The seasonal route will initially return with three flights a week in November and March, and increase to five flights each week during the summer months from December to February.
 
These five direct flights represent approximately 1400 seats flying to Adelaide from Hong Kong each week, a nearly 50 per cent increase in seat capacity compared to the airline’s first season after returning last year.
 
The Cathay Pacific expansion builds South Australia’s increasing international opportunities for trade and tourism operators, having welcomed direct China Eastern flights from Shanghai for the first time last month.  
 
The boosted seasonal service will also unlock additional cargo space for exporters, enabling direct access for more of the state’s high-value exports such as wine, seafood, and hi-tech goods.
 
South Australia exported a record $18.4 billion in goods in the 12 months to May 2026, with the state’s exporters bolstered by the South Australian Government’s efforts to establish and re-establish direct international flights between Adelaide and the world.
 
These direct flights better connect South Australia to the world – including with our biggest trading partners in Asia.
 
In the last 12 months, more than 23,000 tonnes of South Australian goods were exported through air freight – 35 per cent higher than the previous year.
 
In addition, Adelaide Airport achieved its busiest May on record, with more than 716,000 people passing through the terminal and a 20 per cent increase year on year in international travellers.
 
The resumption and expansion of the Cathay Pacific service is set to boost the state’s international visitor expenditure, which currently contributes $1.7 billion to South Australia’s economy.
 
Cathay Pacific is one of Asia’s leading international airlines, with a global network linking travellers to Adelaide from more than 100 destinations together with HK Express worldwide via its Hong Kong hub.
 
The flights from Hong Kong to Adelaide will operate on a state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900, which includes Business, Premium Economy and Economy cabins.
 
From 10 November 2026 to 27 March 2027, flights will arrive Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday nights before returning the next day. Between December and February, additional flights will arrive on Monday and Friday nights.

Acting Minister for Tourism Lucy Hood said it is a clear vote of confidence in South Australia that Cathay Pacific is expanding to five flights a week during the summer months.

“Whether it’s our beautiful beaches, amazing wildlife or restaurants set to feature in the globally recognised Michelin Guide – there is so much on offer for visitors coming from Hong Kong and beyond,” she said.

“More flights and more connections means South Australia has links all over the world, driving visitors to our regions and supporting local operators and businesses.”

Minister for State Development Chris Picton added South Australia’s international presence continues to gather momentum. 

“We have more international flights, record exports and record numbers of travellers passing through our airport,” he said.
 
“Seeing Cathay Pacific not only return but significantly expand its Adelaide services demonstrates the strength of our state's international appeal.”
 
“These extra non-stop flights will provide long-term economic benefits for our state by increasing tourism, boosting international student visitation and powering exports – including with our biggest trading partners in Asia. “
 
“Our government welcomes this greater connectivity to one of world’s most dynamic and growing regions.”
 

Cathay Regional General Manager, Southeast Asia & Oceania, Aldric Chau said; “after seeing a strong return to Adelaide last year, we are pleased to strengthen our commitment to the city through increased flight frequencies.”
 
“These additional services will make it easier for customers to experience Cathay Pacific’s world-class service while connecting onwards to destinations across Asia, Europe, North America and beyond.”
 
Adelaide Airport Managing Director, Brenton Cox said Cathay Pacific has been an important and loyal airline partner for well over three decades.

“We’re excited to again welcome their return in November for our peak summer season.”
 
“We expect Cathay Pacific’s non-stop service to Hong Kong with excellent connections to Asian and European destinations will again prove popular for both inbound and outbound tourism, international students and our local exporters.”
 
“Customers will be able to fly on the new A350-900, with Premium Economy creating a greater seating choice.”