Shimojishima welcomes first international flight operated by HK Express

Shimojishima welcomes first international flight operated by HK Express

Travelers from Hong Kong arrive Shimojishima on the island’s first-ever international flight route on July 19. Airport staff greet the passengers while holding a banner at Shimojishima Airport located in Irabu, Miyako island.


July 20, 2019 Ryukyu Shimpo

HK Express, a Hong Kong-based low-cost carrier (LCC) launched nonstop service between Hong Kong and Shimojishima on July 19. The route is the first to offer international access to Irabu, Miyako island. Shimojishima Airport held a ceremony to commemorate the inaugural flight, where HK Express and local municipality staff greeted and sent off passengers.

Miyako area’s first international route offers three flights a week, on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays. The inaugural flight from Hong Kong was a full flight, which arrived at Shimojishima Airport around 5:40 p.m. After taxiing through a water cannon salute, passengers deboarded the plane. HK Express Commercial Director Jonathan Hutt commented, “Shimojishima is one of the most beautiful airports in the Asia region. We are certain there is a sizeable LCC market potential here. We are thinking ahead on how to provide year-round service beyond the peak-season.” Shimojishima Airport Manager Kentaro Tomono said, “What’s significant is that this route provides us with access to Hong Kong’s innumerable users. There is also the potentiality of attracting European and American tourists in Hong Kong. It’s a route that we’d like to grow and expand with care.”

To celebrate the debut, HK Express is offering an introductory price of 2,600 yen on one-way flights booked by 12:59 a.m. on July 22, for flights departing before October 19.

(English translation by T&CT and Monica Shingaki)

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