Hong Kong To Host The 30th Edition Of Routes World In 2025

Hong Kong has today (May 9) been confirmed as the destination for Routes World 2025. The event will take place from September 24-26, 2025, and be hosted by Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) at AsiaWorld-Expo, with support from Hong Kong Tourism Board.

Routes World unites decision makers from airlines, airports and the destinations they serve from across the globe. Negotiations that take place at the event define future air connectivity. The 30^th edition of the event is expected to attract VPs and heads of network planning from over 260 of the world’s leading and fastest-growing airlines.

Increased air connectivity is proven to bring massive economic benefits and prosperity to a destination. Independent analysis has demonstrated that the total economic impact of a typical Routes World event can exceed more than $590 million. This is primarily a result of new air services secured due to the profile from hosting the event.

HKIA has witnessed strong passenger growth in 2024. In March, the hub handled 4.36 million passengers and 29,840 flight movements, representing year-on-year increases of 56.7% and 48.2%, respectively.

With the completion of the Three-runway System (3RS) expected by the end of 2024, HKIA’s long-term strategy focuses on attracting airlines to open new destinations and leveraging the market potential of the Greater Bay Area and Mainland China. Following the full completion of the 3RS, the airport will have more slots, allowing new markets such as the Belt and Road Initiative countries and the Middle East to connect to Hong Kong.

Speaking at the announcement, Steven Small, director of Routes, said: “The application process to host Routes World 2025 was incredibly competitive. We are delighted to announce that we will be uniting the global route development community in Hong Kong for our 30^th edition of the event.”

Small added: “Half of the world’s population lives within a 5-hour flight of Hong Kong International Airport. With decision makers from over 130 countries expected to attend, Hong Kong will showcase the significant infrastructure developments to the people who decide where the world’s aircraft fly.”

Vivian Cheung, Chief Operating Officer of Airport Authority Hong Kong, said, “Routes World is a prestigious international event which will bring together over 3,000 industry leaders representing airports, airlines and other key stakeholders. This aligns perfectly with our commitment to strengthening Hong Kong’s position as an international aviation hub, connecting people in this world-class metropolis that embraces business opportunities, cultural diversity and social vibrancy.”

Mrs Cheung added: “We look forward to welcoming our guests from around the globe to visit and explore Hong Kong, and we hope that through this event, more routes can be opened connecting our city with more destinations.”