The inaugural codeshare flight between Hong Kong Airlines and Virgin Australia took off from Melbourne, Australia and touched down the Hong Kong International Airport earlier, marking both airlines’ cooperation under a strategic alliance that they announced early this year.

The codeshare partnership enables both airlines to create an expanded network of destinations across Hong Kong, mainland China, and Australia, aiming to offer more choice for travellers.

Under the codeshare agreement, Hong Kong Airlines codeshares with Virgin Australia on its five return services per week between Hong Kong and the Gold Coast and Cairns, Australia.

Virgin Australia customers travelling on these services will also be able to book onward travel to mainland China under an interline agreement with Hong Kong Airlines.

On the other hand, Hong Kong Airlines customers travelling to or from Hong Kong will enjoy codeshare flights to 11 destinations on the Virgin Australia network.

Following the inaugural flight, the airlines also kicked off a reciprocal frequent flyer benefits program as part of the first phase of the alliance.

Members of Virgin Australia’s Velocity Frequent Flyer program will be able to earn Velocity Frequent Flyer Points and Status Credits when travelling on eligible flights operated by Hong Kong Airlines.

Tang King Shing, vice chairman of Hong Kong Airlines, remarked: “The alliance with Virgin Australia is one of the major steps of Hong Kong Airlines’ global expansion strategy in turning ourselves from a regional airline to an international carrier.

“We are thrilled to achieve the frequent flyer program collaboration and offer more benefits to customers.

“By combining both airlines’ strengths, we provide travellers not just enhanced connection between Hong Kong and destinations in the Oceania, but also enhance their entire travel experience with luxury services bringing in by both airlines.”