3 December 2003HONG KONG - Cathay Pacific Airways launched its first
service back to Beijing last night, after a 13-year
absence.
In a statement released last night, Philip Chen, Cathay
Director and COO said the flights, while now only three
times per week are an important milestone in Cathay's goal
to build up Hong Kong as a hub and gateway to mainland
China.
"By combining our global network with convenient
connecting services, Cathay Pacific aims to strengthen Hong
Kong's position as a global aviation hub and gateway to the
Chinese Mainland, as well as promote tourism," he said.
Among the 280 passengers on board flight CX318 to
Beijing was Marjorie Ho who had also flown on Cathay's
final flight to mainland China back in May 1990.
"I waited 13 years for Cathay Pacific to fly back," Ms
Ho said. She is travelling to Beijing with her husband on a
four-day tour of the capital city.