After resuming direct flights to Vancouver and the Gold Coast in 2025, Hong Kong Airlines announced in-cabin pet travel and service upgrades. With a new baggage policy, enhanced inflight dining, a revamped VIP lounge, improved online check-in, and the city’s first pet in-cabin option, the airline is introducing several new features for passengers.
Pet cabin available only on Japan routes for now
For the first time, passengers can fly with their furry companions right beside them, rather than placing them in the hold. This unique offering is currently available only on select routes to Japan, including Tokyo (NRT), Osaka (KIX), and Nagoya (NGO).
However, on the way back to Hong Kong, all pets will be kept in the plane’s climate-controlled cargo, and there are different rules to follow regarding the booking of the tickets, the bag requirements, and the weight limit, currently set at 8 kilos. Check this page to see all the rules.
What other upgraded services can passengers expect?
The pet travel service is just one part of Hong Kong Airlines’ wider upgrade plan. The new baggage policy offers Economy Class travellers 23kg checked baggage (plus 7kg carry-on) and Business Class passengers a generous 64kg (two pieces, 32kg each) plus 15kg of cabin baggage.
Inflight dining has been elevated with signature Cantonese dishes crafted in collaboration with Michelin-starred Ming Court. Meanwhile, the Club Autus lounge at Hong Kong International Airport, upgraded in partnership with Plaza Premium Group, now provides an enhanced premium experience.
Passengers also benefit from improved online check-in, with free adjacent seating for children under 12 and more complimentary seat selection options.
Looking ahead, Hong Kong Airlines is expanding fast. Daily non-stop flights to Sydney should be launched on June 20, marking its second Australian route this year.
Meanwhile, has climbed back to ninth place among the world’s busiest airports, showing strong recovery even if operations remain slightly below pre-pandemic levels. One last thing for travellers to keep in mind, since April 7, power banks are banned on flights, so make sure your devices are fully charged before take-off.
Header Image Credit: Andy Blackledge (Flickr) / Melv_L – MACASR (Wikimedia Commons)
