Cathay pacific has unveiled plans for new flights from the UK to Hong Kong. This will be the first of its kind since there has not been any direct flight to China from an airport outside London. London Heathrow Airport currently has five flights a day to Hong Kong. They confirmed that the launch of new flights from Manchester is because it’s important to improve business relations between China and North England. The new flights are set to operate four times a week beginning 8th December 2014 that is if it is approved by the government.
The proposals have been presented for approval by the Government. Airport city Manchester is the third biggest airport in the UK which serves an average of 21 Million passengers every year. Airlines in this airports fly to two hundred different destinations in the world. Manchester houses a large number of Chinese people some of whom have invested up to £800. This money is to be used for office improvements, construction of factories and research centres.
Flights will leave Manchester at Midday and arrive before eight the next morning. When they leave Hong Kong, they will arrive at 6.20 am every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday in Manchester. The general manager Europe of Cathay pacific, Angus Barclay said that the new route provides a good opportunity that will stimulate economic growth in the North of England. The CEO of Manchester airport groups echoed his sentiments saying that the new route would seal the airports placement on the international hub. He added that there was indeed demand for air travel from Northwest England, Mainland China and Hong Kong. It will also be advantageous if some Chinese businesses are thinking of relocating or putting up offices in the city. Being one of the largest economies, improved ties between China and England will be beneficial to both parties.