Published on
December 18, 2025
Hong Kong Airlines has teamed up with Ocean Park in a strategic partnership designed to enhance Hong Kong’s appeal as a premier travel destination. This collaboration features a one-of-a-kind panda-themed aircraft, which symbolizes the city’s unique blend of culture and entertainment. The move is aimed at captivating tourists, boosting the airline’s visibility, and reinforcing Hong Kong’s tourism sector as it continues to recover. By integrating world-class aviation with exceptional attractions like Ocean Park, the partnership seeks to offer travelers an unforgettable journey, while highlighting Hong Kong’s distinct charm to a global audience.
At a critical juncture, as Hong Kong’s aviation sector fully rebounds and the global travel landscape experiences a resurgence, Hong Kong Airlines and Ocean Park have revealed the signing of a three-year strategic partnership. This collaboration will be led by a custom-designed aircraft adorned with Ocean Park’s iconic Panda Friends branding. The partnership reflects a shared vision to integrate world-class aviation services with exceptional tourism and entertainment offerings, highlighting Hong Kong’s distinctive charm to an international audience while injecting fresh energy into the city’s tourism scene.
To mark this important occasion, the signing ceremony took place at Ocean Park’s renowned Giant Panda Adventure exhibit. The agreement was officially signed by Mr. Jeff Sun, President of Hong Kong Airlines, and Mr. Ivan Wong, Chief Executive of Ocean Park Corporation. The event was witnessed by Mrs. Cheung Fung Wing Ping, Angelina, JP, Commissioner for Tourism, along with Mr. Tony Ma, Vice Chairman of Hong Kong Airlines, and Mr. Paulo Pong, Chairman of the Board of Ocean Park Corporation.
Mr Jeff Sun, President of Hong Kong Airlines, stated, “We are deeply honoured to embark on this meaningful strategic partnership with Ocean Park—a brand that holds a special place in the collective memory and pride of Hong Kong people. As we are actively expanding our route network, we are dedicated to enhancing Hong Kong’s position as an international aviation hub. This panda-themed aircraft is more than just a commitment to promoting Hong Kong tourism; it is a symbol of our dedication to creating flying experiences that are not only distinctly Hong Kong but also emotionally engaging. We look forward to leveraging the power of aviation to carry the charm and hospitality of Hong Kong to every corner of the globe.”
He continued, “This one-of-a-kind A320 aircraft is expected to enter service in the first half of next year, flying to the majority of destinations across our network. It will serve as Hong Kong’s ‘ambassador in the sky’, allowing travellers from around the world to experience the charm of the adorable pandas at 30,000 feet, marking the beginning of an unforgettable journey long before they even touch down in the city.”
Mr Paulo Pong, Chairman of the Board of Ocean Park Corporation, said, “We are privileged to announce this extraordinary milestone for the Panda Friends IP made possible by the landmark collaboration between Ocean Park and Hong Kong Airlines. Travellers will soon be greeted by our beloved Panda Friends characters adorning a dedicated Hong Kong Airlines aircraft, taking the mission of Ocean Park to the skies. Hong Kong’s giant pandas will now become international travel ambassadors, amplifying the momentum they have built on the ground. This partnership is set to raise global awareness for giant panda conservation, and inspire even more visitors to discover Ocean Park as well as the eclectic allure and cultural tapestry of Hong Kong.”
Mrs Cheung Fung Wing Ping, Angelina, Commissioner for Tourism of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, said, “The partnership between Hong Kong Airlines and Ocean Park to launch an innovative Panda Friends aircraft with Hong Kong local characteristics has further brought our city’s vitality and craze for giant pandas to different parts of the world through Hong Kong Airlines’ flight routes. The Government will continue to lead Ocean Park, jointly with the Hong Kong Tourism Board and various sectors of society, to exercise creativity and launch more giant panda-themed promotional activities and merchandise, so as to attract visitors from around the world to Hong Kong and drive further tourism development.”
A Panda-Themed Aircraft to Celebrate the New Collaboration
The highlight of the partnership’s first phase is the unveiling of a panda-themed aircraft. The plane’s design showcases Ocean Park’s beloved Panda Friends characters, featuring Jia Jia, the elder sister, and De De, the playful younger brother, who were born and raised in Hong Kong. This aircraft will serve as more than just a transport vehicle—it will be an “airborne ambassador” for conservation, carrying the essence of Hong Kong’s environmental stories across the globe. By harnessing the universal charm of giant pandas and Ocean Park’s worldwide recognition, the collaboration aims to draw more families and young travelers to explore Hong Kong’s rich culture and scenic landscapes.
Hong Kong Airlines has joined forces with Ocean Park in a bold new partnership, unveiling a panda-themed aircraft to captivate tourists. This collaboration aims to reinforce Hong Kong’s position as a premier travel destination by combining world-class aviation with unique local attractions, offering an unforgettable travel experience.
Exciting Tourism Offerings and Marketing Strategies Ahead
Hong Kong Airlines and Ocean Park are set to launch exclusive travel packages that combine flights and admission tickets, providing an easy and convenient way for visitors to experience the giant pandas.
In the coming three years, the partners plan to expand their efforts with innovative projects such as joint marketing initiatives, shared membership perks, and community outreach programs. These initiatives will work together to strengthen Hong Kong’s position as a top global travel destination, while promoting the city’s vibrant tourism and cultural growth.
