Hong Kong Airlines to end long-haul business class flights to London in September
Skift Take
The start-up carrier had hoped to offer an all-business-class service from Hong Kong to London, but was unable to compete with more established airlines that business travelers rely on.
Hong Kong Airlines Ltd.–backed by Chinese aviation-and-leisure conglomerate HNA Group Co.–is suspending its all-business-class flights to London just six months into the much-touted service because of poor demand, dealing a blow to the its efforts to compete with well-established airlines on long-haul routes.
The decision follows a review of its European strategy in light of the weak economic outlook there.
Up Next
Business Travel
The State of Corporate Travel and Expense 2025
A new report explores how for travel and finance managers are targeting enhanced ROI, new opportunities, greater efficiencies, time and money savings, and better experiences for employees with innovative travel and expense management solutions.
Sponsored Hotels
Record Growth Predicted for Indian Hotel Sector: What to Expect — India Report
Domestic demand in the form of weddings, business travel and MICE is leading to record occupancy levels in the Indian hotel industry. However, lack of foreign arrivals continues to be a sore spot.
Tourism
The New Chinese Traveler: Where They’re Going, How Much They’re Spending
While some destinations may have shifted focus away from waiting for Chinese travelers to return, those still targeting this market need to adapt. The message: Stay agile to meet the demands of a market that is regaining its momentum and redefining its priorities.
Online Travel
Altimeter Capital Partner Says AI Will Transform Travel Search: ‘It’s Already Happening’
Thomas Reiner says the best case scenario for online travel agencies is that they lose commissions. And metasearch engines could become things of the past.
Online Travel
GetYourGuide Shows European Commission How Google Should Fix Its Travel Ads
The European Commission may soon decide what Google must do to comply with the Digital Markets Act. In the experiences sector, GetYourGuide's proposed advertising changes may be an improvement for platforms and operators, but is the lack of price comparison among companies what travelers really want?