Hyderabad-Hong Kong Flights Resume as Cathay Expands in India

Cathay Pacific has expanded its operations in India with the reinstatement of its non-stop passenger flights from Hyderabad to Hong Kong. The service, which resumed on March 31, 2025, operates three times a week on Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays, providing greater connectivity for travelers between the two destinations.

With Hyderabad added back to its network, Cathay Pacific now operates in five Indian cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad. This move further strengthens the airline’s position in India, reinforcing its role in facilitating international travel to Hong Kong and beyond.

GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd. CEO Pradeep Panicker highlighted the significance of the resumed service. He noted that restoring direct connectivity between Hyderabad and Hong Kong enhances global access for travelers and businesses. The availability of additional belly cargo capacity is expected to benefit sectors that rely on time-sensitive shipments, including perishables, mail, and courier services.

Cathay Pacific’s Regional General Manager for South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, Rakesh Raicar, highlighted that Hyderabad’s inclusion aligns with the airline’s broader India expansion strategy. He stated that the city’s economic development and rising outbound travel demand make it a critical market. As part of its commitment to Indian travelers, Cathay Pacific aims to provide increased options, improved connectivity, and a high standard of service.

The Hyderabad-Hong Kong route is being serviced by the Airbus A330-300 aircraft, which offers Business and Economy class options. The airline currently operates 39 return flights per week across India, with an expansion planned to 43 weekly return flights by September 1, 2025. Hyderabad’s service frequency will increase to five flights per week, while Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai will also see enhanced connectivity.

Hyderabad’s growing prominence as a business and technology hub has fueled an increase in outbound travel. Its geographical advantage, infrastructure development, and economic expansion have made it a key player in international aviation. The ongoing expansion at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, operated by GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd., has contributed to the city’s ability to attract more long-haul flights. The airport currently connects travelers to 72 domestic and 23 international destinations.

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport has recorded notable growth, becoming the fastest-growing metro airport in India. In 2024, total passenger traffic increased by 15 per cent compared to the previous year. The airport set records on February 22, 2025, handling 93,575 passengers in a single day, and on February 26, 2025, with 622 air traffic movements. Passenger numbers in 2024 reached 25 million, a rise from 21 million in 2023, marking a 19 per cent year-over-year increase.

Cathay Pacific’s return to Hyderabad is expected to support a variety of travel needs, from business to education and tourism. Through its hub in Hong Kong, passengers will have access to an extensive network that includes the Chinese mainland, Japan, Korea, the Southwest Pacific, and North America. The airline, along with low-cost carrier HK Express, has introduced 13 new destinations in 2025 and plans to expand further, aiming to connect to over 100 destinations worldwide.

In addition to passenger services, the resumed Hyderabad route brings added cargo capacity. Cathay Cargo’s operations will facilitate the transportation of high-value and time-sensitive goods such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, and fresh produce. The airline operates up to 13 weekly freighter flights between Hong Kong and key Indian cities, with cargo capacity also available on passenger flights.

Flight schedules for the Hong Kong-Hyderabad route vary across different operational periods in 2025. Services will initially run three times a week before expanding to five weekly flights from September. Departures from Hong Kong to Hyderabad are scheduled in the evening, with return flights departing Hyderabad in the early morning.