Cathay Pacific Returns to Adelaide with New Non-Stop Flights and Award-Winning Experience
By Airline Ratings Thu May 22, 2025
Cathay Pacific is strengthening its Southwest Pacific presence with the return of non-stop flights between Hong Kong and Adelaide from 11 November 2025. The seasonal winter service will operate three times weekly, restoring a key connection between the airline’s global hub and South Australia’s vibrant capital.
This marks Cathay Pacific’s eighth destination in the region, alongside year-round services to Auckland, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney, as well as seasonal routes to Cairns and Christchurch.
The announcement follows a string of major accolades for Cathay Pacific, including its consistent Seven-Star Safety Rating from AirlineRatings and its recognition as Runner-Up for World’s Best Business Class in the 2025 AirlineRatings Awards, as well as in the 2025 World's Best Airline Awards.
A return with history and heart
Cathay Pacific’s relationship with Adelaide runs deep. The airline first began passenger flights to the city in 1992 and soon after partnered with Flight Training Adelaide for its cadet pilot program—an alliance now spanning over 30 years.
Cathay Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau said,
“We are thrilled to be reconnecting our home hub with Adelaide, a bustling city that holds particular significance for Cathay Pacific. This return not only reinforces our commitment to South Australia but also expands travel options for our customers across Asia, the Southwest Pacific, and beyond.”
“At the peak of this winter season, we’ll be operating close to 90 return flights per week to eight Southwest Pacific destinations. Whether it’s business, leisure or family travel, we’re excited to welcome more travelers onboard and showcase our award-winning service.”
Aircraft and schedule
The route will be serviced by Cathay Pacific’s state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900, featuring:
Fully lie-flat Business Class seats
Spacious Premium Economy cabin
Comfortable, modern Economy seating
Free inflight Wi-Fi and upgraded entertainment options
Flight Schedule: Hong Kong – Adelaide (11 November 2025 to 27 March 2026)
CX173: HKG–ADL, Departs 23:30, Arrives 10:30+1 (Tue, Thu, Sat)
CX174: ADL–HKG, Departs 12:00, Arrives 17:40 (Wed, Fri, Sun)
All times local; subject to change and regulatory approval.
Expanding reach, both passenger and cargo
The Adelaide relaunch is part of a broader growth strategy across the Cathay Group. Together with HK Express, the group is adding 16 destinations to its global network in 2025. New routes this year include Hyderabad, Dallas, Urumqi, Rome (from June 5), Munich (June 16), Brussels (August 3), and now Adelaide.
With one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets, a robust safety record, and award-winning premium service, Cathay Pacific’s return to Adelaide underscores its commitment to excellence and regional connectivity.
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