Hong Kong-based startup Greater Bay Airlines has been granted license to operate 104 routes from Hong Kong International Airport. The license has been issued by Air Transport Licensing Authority.
Greater Bay Airlines plans to operate flights to mainland China, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and destinations in the Asia-Pacific region. In January 2021, the airline had applied to operate 48 routes to mainland China, as well as flights to destinations including Bangkok, Seoul and Tokyo.
In September 2021, the carrier received its first Boeing B737 aircraft and it plans to take delivery of 2 more aircraft in the near future. The airline’s website also states that “it plans to have seven Boeing B737-800 aircraft in service by 2022 and more than 30 by 2026”.
Greater Bay Airlines, in a statement, said that it would “adopt the business model which offers great attractive fares, flexibility and choice for customers which empower customers to choose and enjoy for what they want and afford to pay”.
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As yet there are no confirmed launch dates for flight, with CEO Algernon Yau commenting:
This is one of the most important milestones of a new airline entrant in Hong Kong. We received our Air Operator’s Certificate in October 2021 from the Civil Aviation Department of Hong Kong. Now, with the licence granted by ATLA, it means that we can expedite preparation and confirmation of other regulatory requirements and launch preparations, such as applying for operating permits from different aviation authorities of places we plan to fly to. We are excited to bring a new airline choice to customers, at a time when travellers are yearning for the opportunity to fly again soon. GBA is committed to contributing to the continual aviation development of Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area.
He added:
The airline industry helps generate trade, promote tourism, and create more employment opportunities for Hong Kong people. I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank again my team and the regulatory authorities concerned. We look forward to the launch our inaugural service soon.
Featured image by Greater Bay Airlines
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