This year, the travel industry got a much-needed boost as the world began to lift COVID-19 restrictions. In Hong Kong, however, some Covid restrictions are still in place, which has led to greater focus on stimulating tourism.
On September 23, 2022, the Hong Kong government announced that it would end strict quarantine measures for foreign travelers. To further encourage tourism, the Hong Kong Tourism Board recently announced that it will provide customers with around 500,000 free flights.
A spokesperson for the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) confirmed to them that 500,000 air tickets worth an estimated $254.8 million will be offered to tourists from around the world, as well as Hong Kong nationals, CNN reported. This means passengers flying from Heathrow get to fly for free.
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Hong Kong’s flag carrier Cathay Pacific flies to and from Heathrow – but there could be trouble ahead. The airline is facing “unprecedented” staff shortages, according to the Hong Kong Air Crew Association (HKAOA).
“CX is not ready to resume full operations,” they said. The airline has been forced to cut capacity during the pandemic and has been hit by Hong Kong’s Covid restrictions – which were and remain some of the strictest in the world.
What are the travel rules in Hong Kong?
On September 26, 2022, Hong Kong’s Covid rules were officially changed. Overseas travelers are currently no longer obliged to quarantine in hotels but are still required to take some additional precautions and must be able to provide the following:
- Recognized Vaccination Records
- Proof of a negative rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours of departure
- Health Quarantine Declaration Form
Commenting on the lifting of coronavirus restrictions, Dr. Pang Yiu-ka, Chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), said: “The new arrangement marks the reopening of Hong Kong as a tourism gateway with important international connections. Hong Kong residents.
“In addition, passengers are not required to undergo a polymerase chain reaction test before boarding the plane, and upon arrival in Hong Kong can go directly to their homes or hotels of their choice to wait for the test results. The new arrangement will provide greater convenience and flexibility for passengers.”
Dr Peng continued: “The ‘Come2HK’ program is applicable to all Mainland and Macau tourists, and removing the quota for the program will also facilitate Mainland tourists visiting Hong Kong, especially business travelers and family travelers.” The HKTB has been working to revive tourism industry, and will introduce a number of measures with the assistance of the government to promote the recovery of Hong Kong’s tourism industry.
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