In an effort to boost tourism, Hong Kong’s government will give away half a million free airline tickets this year to attract travelers back to the city.
The Hong Kong Tourism Board launched the new global promotional campaign on Thursday, announcing plans to offer 500,000 free air tickets to tourists and local residents. The airfare, which will be handed out over the next six months, will be given out through Hong Kong’s three biggest airlines: Cathay Pacific, HK Express and Hong Kong Airlines.
“Hong Kong is back on the map for global travellers, with more excitement to offer than ever before,” Dr Pang Yiu-kai, Chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, said in a press release. “We are extending a biggest welcome to the world through the ‘Hello Hong Kong’ campaign, inviting friends from everywhere as they return to one of the world’s greatest tourism destinations. I am confident that Hong Kong’s vibrant east-meets-west culture, together with our iconic and brand-new attractions and immersive experiences will attract travellers back for an epic, unforgettable journey.”
During an appearance on CNBC this week, Fred Lam, the CEO of Hong Kong’s airport authority, said he expects the campaign to welcome back more than 1.5 million tourists.
“Even though we are only giving out 500,000 air tickets, we believe it will bring in more than 1.5 million incoming tourists,” Lam shared. “We hope those who received the tickets will bring 2-3 more friends and family with them [to Hong Kong].”
As for how travelers will get their hands on free tickets, Lam explained: “[That] could include large-scale lucky draws, giving it out through a first-come-first serve basis, offering buy-on-get-one free tickets, or through game participations.”
