Anniversary event honors longstanding partnerships and reinforces commitment to the future of travel
HONG KONG, Oct. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Air France marks the 88th anniversary of its Paris–Hong Kong route with an exclusive reception at PANO, West Kowloon. The event brings together government representatives, clients, partners and stakeholders to celebrate the airline’s historic presence in the city and reaffirm its role as a vital bridge between Hong Kong SAR, France, and the global network.
88 years of legacy & innovation
The route was inaugurated on 4 August 1938—just five years after Air France’s founding—with the Dewoitine 338, a journey that initially took six days and 18 stopovers. By 1960, the introduction of the Boeing 707 jet era brought faster service, operating three times a week with a 150-passenger capacity. For nearly nine decades, Air France has brought its signature French hospitality to Hong Kong, defined by culinary excellence, elegance, and refined service. This milestone serves as a tribute to the deep-rooted ties between the airline and the local community.
“Hong Kong remains a strategic gateway between Europe and Asia, embodying the values of openness and international connectivity that resonate with Air France,” said Steven van Wijk, General Manager of Air France KLM, Greater China. “We are proud to have been part of this vibrant city’s journey and remain dedicated to strengthening the bonds that connect Hong Kong to the world.”
The celebration also highlights the unwavering loyalty of customers and the collaborative spirit of partners and authorities, whose support has been instrumental in the airline’s continued success and network recovery.
Looking ahead, Air France continues to invest in premium customer experiences, digital innovation, and fleet renewal under the Air France-KLM Group. These initiatives are matched by a firm commitment to sustainability, underscoring the airline’s ambition to lead a more responsible era of aviation.
“Celebrating 88 years fills us with pride for our heritage and confidence in our future,” said Noud Duyzings, Senior Vice President, Air France KLM, The Netherlands & International Markets. “While the world evolves, our mission remains constant: to bring people together, foster cultural understanding, and create memorable journeys.”
Enhanced connectivity and comfort
From 25 October 2026 to 27 March 2027, Air France will operate 21 weekly flights between Paris Charles de Gaulle and its three Greater China gateways: Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong, offering seamless connectivity to destinations worldwide. The Hong Kong–Paris route will be served by the Airbus A350-900, configured with 292 seats: 48 in Business, 32 in Premium Economy, and 212 in Economy. The Airbus A350-900 serving Hong Kong is being equipped with Air France’s new Starlink Wi-Fi service, offering high-speed connectivity throughout the flight.
Daily flights by Airbus A350-900 (in local time):
AF188: leaves Paris-Charles de Gaulle at 23:30, arrives in Hong Kong at 18:55 the next day;
AF185: leaves Hong Kong at 22:45, arrives at Paris-Charles de Gaulle at 05:50 the next day.
Air France is elevating its in-flight dining by partnering with a prestigious lineup of starred chefs and world-class pastry experts. From La Première to the Premium cabin, these menus celebrate French culinary excellence, featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices across all flights departing from Paris.
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SOURCE Air France
