HONG KONG, Air France is celebrating 88 years of connecting Paris and Hong Kong, marking nearly nine decades of air travel between France and one of Asia’s major international cities.
The airline commemorated the milestone with a special reception at PANO in West Kowloon. The event brought together government representatives, customers, business partners and other industry stakeholders.
The celebration also highlighted Air France’s long-standing presence in Hong Kong and its continued commitment to international connectivity.
Paris–Hong Kong Route Began in 1938
Air France launched its Paris–Hong Kong route on August 4, 1938, just five years after the airline was established.
The first service used a Dewoitine 338 aircraft. At the time, the journey took six days and included 18 stopovers.
In 1960, the introduction of the Boeing 707 marked another major development. The jet aircraft enabled faster journeys, with Air France operating three flights a week and carrying up to 150 passengers.
Since then, the airline has continued to develop its services while maintaining its presence in Hong Kong.
Air France Highlights Hong Kong’s Role as an International Gateway
Steven van Wijk, General Manager of Air France-KLM for Greater China, described Hong Kong as an important connection point between Europe and Asia.
He said the city’s international outlook reflects Air France’s commitment to connecting people and destinations around the world.
The anniversary also recognised the contribution of customers, local authorities and business partners to the airline’s longstanding operations in Hong Kong.
Meanwhile, Noud Duyzings, Senior Vice President of Air France-KLM for the Netherlands and International Markets, said the milestone reflected both the airline’s history and its plans for the future.
He added that the airline would continue working to bring people together and support cultural connections through travel.
Daily Airbus A350-900 Flights Between Paris and Hong Kong
Air France will operate daily flights between Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport and Hong Kong from October 25, 2026, to March 27, 2027, as part of its winter schedule.
The service will use the Airbus A350-900, which has 292 seats across three cabin classes:
- Business Class: 48 seats
- Premium Economy: 32 seats
- Economy: 212 seats
The airline is also equipping the aircraft serving Hong Kong with its new Starlink Wi-Fi service. This is designed to provide high-speed internet access during flights.
Air France’s published winter timetable lists flight AF188 departing Paris at 11.30 pm and arriving in Hong Kong at 6.45 pm the following day. Return flight AF185 leaves Hong Kong at 10.45 pm and arrives in Paris at 5.50 am the next day.
Air France Expands Passenger Services and In-Flight Dining
Beyond flight operations, Air France said it is continuing to invest in passenger comfort, digital services and fleet renewal under the Air France-KLM Group.
The airline is also working with renowned chefs and pastry specialists to enhance its in-flight dining experience.
Its menus feature French cuisine, seasonal ingredients and locally sourced products. The airline said it also aims to incorporate more sustainable practices into its catering services on flights departing from Paris.
As Air France marks 88 years on the Paris–Hong Kong route, the airline is highlighting its aviation history while continuing to develop its services, onboard experience and international connections.
Source: PR Newswire | Rewritten By Minutemy
