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The Hong Kong government has officially welcomed a decision by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) to permit mainland airlines to use Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) for stopovers on international routes.

This development follows the CAAC’s recent expansion of the Individual Visit Scheme for mainland cities. Air China will be the first mainland carrier to implement this new policy.

Starting this Thursday, Air China will launch a flight service from Beijing to Riyadh that includes a stopover in Hong Kong. Under this arrangement, mainland airlines are now able to carry passengers and cargo between destinations in mainland China, Hong Kong, and overseas locations.

A spokesman for the Transport and Logistics Bureau described the measure as a “breakthrough” that enhances HKIA’s status as an international aviation hub, a key objective stated in the 14th Five-Year Plan.

The government anticipates that the new stopover services will significantly improve the airport’s connectivity and offer more travel options for passengers. It is also expected to attract more mainland and international visitors to the city, providing a boost to various local sectors.

The administration stated it will continue its work to expand Hong Kong’s aviation network to serve passengers from different origins and destinations.

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