Originally Posted by
Platinum A332
Originally Posted by RickyT
Here is the combined press release from MU, QF and JQ.
In short, JQ HK will commence operation from 2013 with a fleet of 3 A320s. The fleet will expand to 18 A320s by 2015.
The new airline will operate short haul routes from HKG to China, Japan, South Korea and SE Asia.
Thanks both - so nothing in the PR to lead one to believe this will boost the Australian Tourist market nor be the saviour for International, it's all about regional growth tapping into a new market ... must have been some side-briefing "Make sure you include ...." or the journalist is putting 2-and-2 together etc.
Originally Posted by LHR/MEL/Europe FF
I dunno. Could provide a lot of feeder traffic into the HKG flights (maybe we might even see MEL-HKG switch to an A380 if there is enough traffic).
Flights ex HKG to China are expensive (always - with the exception of Spring which allows only hand luggage and is notoriously delayed).
JQ would provide a valid option for me (especially with lounge access and extra leg-room seats).
I'd expect the Chinese middle-class - who appear to be very brand-conscious - would steer-clear of an LCC. I'd also expect that the timing of QF29 into HKG is unlikely to lend itself to same-day connections for onwards flights into Greater China, so wouldn't expect to see a return to a 747 let alone A380 anytime soon.
This sort of thing is also likely to put CX well offside - welcome to oneworld, the quality alliance!
Regards,
BD