Hong Kong, 16 June 2016 Industry leader HK Express has collected quite a few firsts in its three years as a low-fare airline, and the team is at it again. Just in time for the busy travel season, the airline unveiled its summer’s first exciting new route.

HK Express became the only airline to operate direct flights between Hong Kong and Ishigaki today, further connecting lucky travellers in both countries. To mark the brand new connection, HK Express joined together with the Okinawa Prefecture and Yaeyama Visitors Bureau for a special launch ceremony at International Travel Expo 2016 when the first flight took off for Ishigaki.

The new route is a real game-changer for Guests who are keen to experience more of Japan. In the past, getting to Ishigaki took an exceptional amount of time and money. Indirect routes flew travellers through Tokyo or Naha City, followed by a domestic flight to Ishigaki. But with this new connection, Guests can experience the archipelago’s incredible natural landscapes, crystal-clear coastlines, traditional culture, and unique cuisine for a fraction of the price.

Connecting these two sought-after destinations won’t just serve Hong Kong Guests. Since Hong Kong is a hub of international travel, the brand new link will benefit travellers from all corners of the globe by offering a much faster and more affordable route to Ishigaki.

To celebrate the launch of Ishigaki’s route and in light of the exciting International Travel Expo, the airline is giving out a 20% discount* via a promotion code “HKITE” with travel period from 1 September 2016 to 25 March 2017. The offer is applicable to all routes and will be available for bookings made on or before 19 June to encourage travellers to share the joy with their loved ones.

“The interest and enthusiasm in Japan is just incredible, and we’re so pleased to be able to make this exquisite corner of the world more accessible than ever before,” said Andrew Cowen, Director and CEO of HK Express. “We have even more Japan routes debuting in July, including Takamatsu and Kagoshima, which our Guests are incredibly excited about! Pre-ticket sales have been selling fast, and to keep up with demand we even added extra routes during the summer.”