Flight HB860 from Hong Kong arrives at Zhoushan Putuoshan International Airport on Nov 7. [Photo/Tide News]

Flight HB860 from Hong Kong landed at Zhoushan Putuoshan International Airport on Nov 7, marking the inaugural flight of the Zhoushan-Hong Kong route.

This new link establishes Zhoushan's first regular international direct passenger flight service.

Travel agencies have noticed a marked increase in inquiries about travel to Hong Kong, according to Tong Saifen, executive vice president of Zhoushan Dinghai Guangda Travel Agency.

The route offers a 2.5-hour flight every Monday, Thursday, and Saturday.

The route will stimulate tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges, while fostering mutual economic prosperity, according to a representative from the transport and logistics bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administration Region.

Wang Xingyue, chairman of Zhoushan Putuoshan International Airport, highlighted that this regular flight service is crucial for enhancing port service capabilities and promoting Zhoushan as an international island service hub. It also boosts Zhoushan's global image and tourism appeal.

In 2023, Zhoushan Putuoshan International Airport surpassed 2 million passengers, with 2.55 million projected for 2024 and 4,000 metric tons of cargo and mail.