HK Express begins direct flights to Changzhou, expanding access between Hong Kong and the Yangtze River Delta for business and tourism.
HK Express Airways (HK Express) has officially commenced direct flight operations between Hong Kong and Changzhou, Jiangsu Province, marking the first non-stop route linking the two cities. The new route, which operates three times weekly to Changzhou Benniu International Airport (CZX), strengthens connectivity between Hong Kong and eastern China’s Yangtze River Delta region—a key economic and cultural zone.
The inaugural flight from Changzhou to Hong Kong departed with a full passenger load, indicating strong demand from both leisure and business travellers. This new connection expands HK Express’ footprint in Mainland China, following the launch of services to Beijing Daxing, Ningbo, and Sanya.
For travel trade professionals, this development enhances itinerary planning options for both inbound and outbound travel. It enables smoother access to Changzhou for international visitors transiting via Hong Kong, while also providing Jiangsu-based travellers greater convenience when connecting to Cathay Pacific’s global network through the existing codeshare partnership between the two carriers.
“This launch is an important step in our expansion strategy within the Chinese Mainland,” said Jeanette Mao, CEO of HK Express. “As our fourth destination in the region, Changzhou plays a strategic role in our efforts to support regional mobility and drive connectivity between Hong Kong and the Yangtze River Delta.”
The new route is expected to facilitate increased bilateral tourism and improve travel efficiency for both tourists and the business community. By enhancing access to one of China’s most dynamic regions, the service also contributes to broader economic engagement and regional integration.
Changzhou is a city that offers a wide range of tourism and cultural assets, making it a valuable addition to the itineraries of international travel planners. Highlights include the historic Yancheng ruins—dating back to the Spring and Autumn Period and featuring a rare triple moat system—as well as the picturesque Tianmu Lake and the city’s various heritage sites associated with famed Chinese literary figures such as Li Bai and Su Dongpo.
Contemporary attractions include China Dinosaur Park, which offers immersive entertainment for families and school groups, and the revitalised Qingguo Lane, where traditional canal-side architecture has been transformed into cultural venues and creative hubs. The city is also a major manufacturing centre and a growing base for new energy technology, making it relevant for business-focused visits and MICE-related travel programming.
This new route underscores the growing importance of second- and third-tier Chinese cities in international travel planning and destination development. It also supports Hong Kong’s ongoing efforts to reinforce its role as a key air transport hub in the Asia-Pacific region.
Travel industry stakeholders are encouraged to explore new product and package opportunities linked to this service, particularly in light of the growing demand for more diverse, regional Chinese destinations.