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An air services consultation between Hong Kong and India was successfully concluded in India on December 18, with substantial liberalisation of the bilateral air services arrangements.
Welcoming the outcome of the consultation, Secretary for Transport and Housing Ms Eva Cheng said today (December 27), "The new arrangements between the two sides are a major step forward in the bilateral aviation relationship."
"This is very good news for the airlines of the two sides. More competitive air services between Hong Kong and India will definitely benefit the travelling public," she said.
Under the new arrangements, the airlines of the two sides will be able to increase services to Delhi and Mumbai by more than double the existing level, which is at present about 20 frequencies per week. New services to Bangalore (the IT base in India) and Chennai will also be possible.
The two sides have also exchanged new fifth freedom rights. For example, Indian airlines will be able to operate services to points in North America via Hong Kong under the new arrangements. Hong Kong airlines will be able to operate services to points in Europe beyond India. This will strengthen Hong Kong's status as an international and regional aviation hub.
Ends/Thursday, December 27, 2007
Issued at HKT 16:53
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