Representatives of Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), as part of the delegation led by the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) during the visit to Central Asia, signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with aviation partners in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, respectively, to strengthen air connectivity between Hong Kong and the two countries. Direct flights between Hong Kong and Almaty will be launched next year, further strengthening Hong Kong International Airport’s (HKIA) status as an international aviation hub.

Witnessed by John Lee, Chief Executive of the HKSAR, and Serik Zhumangarin, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy of Kazakhstan, Fred Lam, Chairman of AAHK, exchanged an MoU with the representative of Almaty International Airport Joint Stock Company, Goker Kose, President of Almaty International Airport. Both parties agreed to establish a mutually beneficial partnership, furthering collaboration in areas including enhancing air connectivity, airport management, sustainable development, and talent development. Almaty International Airport Joint Stock Company is responsible for the operation and development of Almaty International Airport, a key international and regional aviation hub in Central Asia. Cathay Pacific will launch a thrice weekly direct passenger flight service between Hong Kong and Almaty in the first quarter of next year.

Vivian Cheung, Chief Executive Officer of AAHK, exchanged a signed MoU with Dilshod Hodjaev, Chief Executive Officer of Fly Khiva Group in Uzbekistan, witnessed by John Lee, Chief Executive of the HKSAR, and Sardor Umurzakov, the Advisor to the President of Uzbekistan on Strategic Development. Both parties agreed to deepen cooperation in areas including building comprehensive passenger and cargo air connectivity, advancing operational excellence and service enhancement, supporting sustainable development and talent development. Fly Khiva Group is an Uzbekistan-based airline group currently operating passenger services across Central Asia, Europe and the Middle East, as well as cargo services with global reach. Fly Khiva Group has been operating cargo flights between Hong Kong and Uzbekistan since 2024.

The HKSAR Government and the Government of Uzbekistan confirmed the establishment of a mutual visa-free arrangement, enabling passport holders to visit the two places for 30 days. In addition, the HKSAR Government has completed the initialling of an Air Services Agreement with Uzbekistan, allowing airlines from both sides to operate flights using these routes.

Fred Lam said, “HKIA has been proactively expanding its aviation network, particularly along Belt and Road markets, with Central Asia representing a strategically important region. The signing of these MoUs with partners in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan lays a strong foundation for closer connectivity between Hong Kong and Central Asia, enhancing the flow of passengers, cargo and business opportunities. We are encouraged by the launch of Cathay Pacific’s direct service between Hong Kong and Almaty, and will continue to work closely with the HKSAR Government to expand HKIA’s network, enhancing our long-term competitiveness and further strengthening Hong Kong’s position as an international aviation hub.”