Hong Kong Airlines confirms London Gatwick service suspension, to focus on Asia Pacific

Hong Kong Airlines stated (09-Aug-2012) it has reviewed its European strategy as a result of the continuing weak economic outlook in Europe, combined with the strength of the regional business within Asia. As a consequence, it has confirmed it will be suspending its all-business class service to London, effective from 10-Sep-2012. "We believe that a regional model focused on Asia Pacific is most appropriate for Hong Kong Airlines at this stage of our growth," president Yang Jian Hong said, adding, "Our key focus will be building our regional network and strengthening our business across China, South East Asia, Japan and Korea. As part of this decision, we will suspend our long-haul flights to London from 10 September, 2012 until further notice." He continued: "Our plan is to re-deploy the three specially equipped, all-business class A330-200s which currently service the London route to charter flights following the suspension." [more - original PR]