Paul Chan: CATHAY PAC AIR (00293) HK$150 billion investment commitment demonstrates confidence in Hong Kong; looks forward to quality service paired with more attractive fares.

CATHAY PAC AIR (00293) held its 80th anniversary dinner today (September 15). In his speech, Hong Kong Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po said that Cathay has grown together with Hong Kong, from its first DC-3 passenger aircraft to today's global network, reflecting Hong Kong's spirit of innovation, pioneering and openness to the world. Cathay's investment commitment of about HK$150 billion demonstrates confidence in Hong Kong's future, and he looks forward to its quality service paired with "more attractive fares." Regarding the national "15th Five-Year Plan" explicitly supporting Hong Kong in consolidating and enhancing its status as an international aviation hub, Paul Chan Mo-po said the Hong Kong government will align with the Three-Runway System, the new facilities of Terminal 2 and the "Airport City" development, actively expand air services agreements and air traffic rights, and strengthen links with the Middle East, Central Asia, Africa and South America. He also welcomed Cathay's plan to launch direct flights to Almaty, Kazakhstan, in January 2027 to promote trade, tourism and cultural exchange, and encouraged the opening of more destinations.