Hong Kong Airlines operated a special HX852 flight on 24 October 2020, carrying more than 100 passengers on their first Hong Kong to Hong Kong service. Themed Embrace “Home” Kong, HX852 was specially organised for those who missed flying and in support of the carrier’s business partners who are affected by the pandemic.
The flight was operated by an Airbus A320 aircraft and flown by Hong Kong Airlines Director of Flight Operations Captain Liaw Kui Chen, with support from Captain Tai Siew Jin and First Officer Victor Lai. Flying within 200 nautical miles in the southeast direction from Hong Kong, passengers were able to take in familiar sights of Hong Kong at take-off and landing, while enjoying sunset in the skies during the 90-minute flight.
Before boarding, all participants were given goodie bags, which included a personalised boarding pass memento for keeps. Each passenger also received HKD600 cash vouchers from Hong Kong Airlines and HKA Holidays, a made in Hong Kong face mask by Mask Factory and disinfectant wipe. The goodie bag also contained a limited edition amenity kit and a snack box, packed with individually wrapped poppy seed bagel with strawberry jam, Palmier cookies and water, and half a dozen of egg tarts redeemable at King Bakery.
Hong Kong Airlines collectables were showcased at the boarding gate as well, featuring patterned designs from four local artists, including Lock Lai, founder of TinBot™ local toy company; Li Han Kong Kai Font creator Lee Kin Ming; tattoo artist Lily Cash and illustrator Jane Lee. Items included tote bags and travel accessories such as passport holder and luggage tags were available to purchase.
The flight took off at 16:47, and gave passengers a chance to look at different spots in Hong Kong, from Hong Kong Disneyland on Lantau Island to Central on Hong Kong Island.
While flying above the South China Sea, a lucky draw for all participants was held, with great prizes such as staycations and dining vouchers offered by top hotels and restaurant vouchers. One lucky winner won a unique experience in Hong Kong Airlines’ state-of-the-art flight simulator while another won an airfare and accommodation package for two in Bangkok from HKA Holidays.
The journey wrapped up with a beautiful sunset in the sky before touching down at Hong Kong International Airport at 18:04.
The Lee sisters were very happy when they heard about Hong Kong Airlines’ Embrace “Home” Kong flight. “We were lucky to get the last two seats from our travel agent. We really want to take this flight as we miss travelling a lot. We are happy with the gifts we received today and also got to see the beautiful sunset in the skies. As a Hong Konger, we must support local aviation and the travel industry during this difficult time.” The Lee sisters added.
Mr. Po, a 92-year-old passenger travelled with his daughter on HX852. “My last trip was to Thailand two years ago. I used to travel a lot but have never flown on a Hong Kong to Hong Kong flight. When my daughter told me that Hong Kong Airlines was organizing one, I thought why not and wanted to try. I don’t mind where the aircraft is flying. I just want to enjoy myself.”
“The aviation industry is facing a very difficult time right now and we appreciate the support to our profession from friends and supporters of Hong Kong Airlines. I hope this special event will give our customers further assurance that we are committed to your safety and well-being. We will also continue to uphold our “Truly Hong Kong, “Deliver More” and “Passion for Service” values to secure a brighter future for Hong Kong Airlines,” said Captain Liaw.
Acknowledgement
Our sponsors: The Langham, Hong Kong, Cordis, Hong Kong, JEN Hong Kong, Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong, Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong, Kerry Hotel Hong Kong, New World Millennium Hong Kong Hotel, Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel, Hong Kong Gold Coast Hotel, Sheraton Hong Kong Tung Chung Hotel, Four Points by Sheraton Hong Kong Tung Chung, Pullman Bangkok Hotel G, Yaki Oni, Kyoto Joe, Tokio Joe, Gate Gourmet, The Galley by Cafe Proud Wings, King Bakery and Mask Factory.