Air Hong Kong
Popular Air Hong Kong Cargo Routes
Hong Kong (HKG)
Osaka (KIX)
Hong Kong (HKG)
Singapore (SIN)
Hong Kong (HKG)
Bahrain (BAH)
Hong Kong (HKG)
Sydney (SYD)
Hong Kong (HKG)
Tokyo (NRT)
Bahrain (BAH)
Hong Kong (HKG)
Dubai (DXB)
Hong Kong (HKG)
Riyadh (RUH)
Hong Kong (HKG)
Air Hong Kong
About Air Hong Kong (LD)
Air Hong Kong (LD) is Hong Kong's pioneering all-cargo airline, established in 1986. As a dedicated express cargo carrier, it plays a crucial role in global logistics, primarily serving as the prime customer for DHL Express and operating under the Cathay Group.
Headquartered in Hong Kong, the airline specializes in transporting express parcels and heavy freight across an extensive network spanning Asia, the Middle East, and Australia. Its operations are exclusively B2B, focusing on commercial freight contracts rather than passenger services.
Fleet Modernization and Operational Excellence
In June 2025, Air Hong Kong completed a significant seven-year re-fleeting program, transitioning to an all-Airbus A330F fleet. This modernization saw the retirement of its final Airbus A300-600F, marking a new era of enhanced fuel efficiency and increased payload capacity.
The current fleet comprises ten Airbus A330-300P2F passenger-to-freighter conversions and four factory-built Airbus A330-200F aircraft. This modern fleet allows for an extended range of 7,400 kilometres, supporting network expansion and maintaining an exceptional 98.3% on-time performance rate, a testament to its operational reliability.
Strategic Partnerships and GCC Presence
Air Hong Kong is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Cathay Group, working closely with Cathay Pacific and Cathay Cargo. This strategic alignment strengthens its position in the global air freight market, leveraging the broader group's network and resources.
The airline maintains a robust presence in the Middle East, with scheduled cargo flights to destinations like Bahrain (BAH) and via Cathay Cargo to Riyadh (RUH) and Dubai (DXB). This connectivity supports vital trade links between Asia and the GCC region, contributing to regional economic growth and logistics efficiency.
Commitment to Sustainability
The transition to an all-Airbus A330F fleet aligns with the Cathay Group's broader sustainability goals. These newer aircraft offer improved fuel efficiency and reduced noise levels, contributing to a more environmentally responsible air cargo operation. Air Hong Kong continues to enhance its services while minimizing its ecological footprint.
Latest Air Hong Kong News
Air Hong Kong enters a new era as an all-Airbus A330F freighter airline
27 June 2025Air Hong Kong successfully completed its seven-year re-fleeting programme by retiring its final Airbus A300-600F freighter. This significant milestone means the airline now operates a modernized, fuel-efficient fleet of 14 Airbus A330 freighters, primarily on behalf of DHL Express and Cathay Cargo.
The retirement of the 21-year-old A300-600F (registered as B-LDB) marked the end of an era for the cargo carrier, which had utilized the aircraft type to move nearly three million tonnes of express cargo since 2004. The updated fleet now consists of ten A330-300P2F passenger-to-freighter conversions and four factory-built A330-200F aircraft.
These newer A330F models offer a substantial 25% increase in payload and cargo volume, alongside an extended range of 7,400 kilometres. This enhanced capability allows for strategic network expansion, including new or increased services to destinations like Bahrain and Sydney, bolstering Air Hong Kong's operational reach.
Air Hong Kong completes fleet modernisation with transition to all-A330 Freighter operation
30 June 2025Chief Operating Officer Clarence Tai formally commemorated the departure of the last A300-600F, emphasizing the profound operational and environmental benefits derived from the new A330F fleet. This modernization is crucial in supporting Hong Kong's status as a premier global aviation hub for cargo.
The fleet modernization aligns seamlessly with the broader sustainability goals of the Cathay Group, delivering improved fuel efficiency and significantly reduced noise levels across its operations. This commitment underscores Air Hong Kong's dedication to responsible and efficient air freight.
The carrier continues to maintain an exceptional operational standard, currently reporting an impressive 98.3% on-time performance rate across its express parcel service network. This high reliability is critical for its commercial partners, particularly DHL Express, ensuring timely delivery of vital cargo.
Cathay Cargo expands Middle East presence
06 June 2024Parent company Cathay Pacific announced the launch of direct passenger flights to Riyadh beginning October 2024, complementing Cathay Cargo's existing weekly freighter flights to the Saudi capital. This expansion signifies a strengthened commitment to the Middle East market.
The broader expansion aims to fortify connectivity and trade between Hong Kong and the Middle East, aligning with initiatives like the Belt and Road. This strategic move enhances the flow of goods and services between these key regions.
While Cathay Pacific scales passenger capacity, Cathay Cargo and Air Hong Kong continue to manage robust regional freight logistics. This includes dedicated cargo operations into important Middle Eastern ports such as Bahrain and Riyadh, ensuring comprehensive air freight solutions for the region.
Airline Bookings
| Cargo Booking | Air Hong Kong specializes in B2B cargo services. For freight bookings, please contact DHL Express or Cathay Cargo directly. Flyin focuses on passenger travel and does not directly facilitate cargo bookings for Air Hong Kong. |
| Freight Prices | Pricing for Air Hong Kong's cargo services is determined by commercial freight contracts with its partners. For detailed quotes on express parcels or heavy freight, please consult DHL Express or Cathay Cargo. |
| Cargo Discounts | Any potential discounts or special rates for cargo services would be negotiated directly through Air Hong Kong's commercial partners, DHL Express and Cathay Cargo, based on freight volume and contract terms. Flyin does not offer cargo-specific discounts. |
| Cargo Tickets | Air Hong Kong does not issue passenger tickets. Its operations are entirely dedicated to cargo, with services managed through commercial freight agreements. There are no 'tickets' in the traditional passenger sense for Air Hong Kong flights. |
Airline Awards
2024
Cargo Operator of the Year Awarded to parent Cathay Cargo by Air Transport World (ATW), reflecting the high standards and operational excellence within the Cathay Group's cargo division, which includes Air Hong Kong.
Air Hong Kong Cargo Services
Airline Information
| IATA Code | LD |
| ICAO Code | AHK |
| Main Company | Cathay Group (Wholly-owned subsidiary) |
| Company Headquarters | Hong Kong, Hong Kong (SAR), China |
| Number of Destinations | 17 (Cargo Destinations) |
| Year of Operation | 1986 |
| Slogan | |
| Alliances | N/A (B2B Cargo Operations, partners with DHL Express and Cathay Cargo) |
| Customer Service Number | N/A (B2B Cargo Operations) |
Air Hong Kong Cargo Destinations
Air Hong Kong operates a vital cargo network connecting Hong Kong with key logistical hubs across Asia, the Middle East, and Australia. Its strategic routes are designed to facilitate efficient express parcel and freight movement for its partners.
Hong Kong to BahrainHong Kong to OsakaHong Kong to SingaporeHong Kong to SydneyHong Kong to TokyoBahrain to Hong KongDubai to Hong KongRiyadh to Hong KongAir Hong Kong (LD) Frequently Asked Questions
No, Air Hong Kong (IATA: LD) is not a passenger airline. It is a dedicated all-cargo carrier, operating freighter aircraft exclusively for the transport of express parcels and general freight for commercial partners like DHL Express and Cathay Cargo.
As Air Hong Kong operates strictly as an express cargo and freight carrier, it does not transport commercial passengers. Therefore, standard passenger baggage allowances, including hand luggage or checked bags, do not apply to its operations.
Passenger check-in is not applicable for Air Hong Kong. The airline solely operates freighter aircraft, and its services are focused on commercial freight logistics, not passenger travel. There are no web, app, or kiosk check-in options for passengers.
No, Air Hong Kong does not offer a passenger loyalty program. As a B2B cargo airline and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cathay Pacific, its operations are exclusively contracted through partners such as DHL Express and Cathay Cargo.
Air Hong Kong offers no passenger cabin classes. Its entire fleet consists of Airbus A330 freighter aircraft specifically configured for main-deck cargo pallets and express shipping containers, dedicated to freight transport.
Air Hong Kong's direct Middle Eastern cargo network currently includes destinations like Bahrain. Its parent company, Cathay Pacific (and Cathay Cargo), operates direct passenger and freighter flights to Riyadh and Dubai, offering broader connectivity in the region.
Because Air Hong Kong is an all-cargo airline, it does not issue passenger tickets. Cancellations and modifications for its freight services are governed by commercial B2B freight contracts, primarily with DHL Express and Cathay Cargo, rather than standard passenger policies.
In the logistics sector, Air Hong Kong is considered a highly reliable cargo carrier. It reports an exceptional on-time performance rate of 98.3% and operates a modern, fuel-efficient fleet of Airbus A330 freighters, ensuring efficient and timely delivery of cargo.
Air Hong Kong Milestones
Founding of Air Hong Kong
Air Hong Kong is founded as Hong Kong's first dedicated all-cargo airline, marking a significant step in the region's aviation history.
Commencement of Charter Operations
The airline commenced charter flying operations, utilizing a Boeing 707-320C freighter to begin its freight services.
Cathay Pacific Acquires Majority Stake
Cathay Pacific Airways acquires a 75% majority shareholding in Air Hong Kong, integrating it into a larger aviation group.
Joint Venture with DHL Express
Cathay Pacific acquires the remaining 25% stake, followed by DHL acquiring a 30% (later 40%) stake to formalize an express cargo joint venture, strengthening its express freight capabilities.
Launch Customer for Airbus A300-600F
Air Hong Kong became the global launch customer for the Airbus A300-600F General Freighter, introducing advanced aircraft into its fleet.
Return to Wholly-Owned Cathay Subsidiary
Cathay Pacific buys back DHL's 40% stake, returning Air Hong Kong to a wholly-owned Cathay subsidiary, and initiates an Airbus A330 re-fleeting program for modernization.
Completion of All-Airbus A330F Fleet Transition
Retired the final Airbus A300-600F in June, completing a 7-year transition to an all-Airbus A330F fleet, enhancing efficiency and capacity.
