Hong Kong Airlines, Ocean Park launch panda-themed A320 to boost tourism

Hong Kong Airlines and Ocean Park have signed a three-year strategic partnership aimed at promoting Hong Kong tourism through a specially commissioned aircraft featuring the theme park’s Panda Friends characters.

Ocean Park, which opened in 1977, has evolved into a conservation and education hub operating as a non-profit statutory body and registered charitable institution. The park is home to Hong Kong-born giant panda twins Jia Jia and De De, whose characters will be prominently featured on the new aircraft livery.

Hong Kong Airlines said that the panda-themed Airbus A320 is expected to enter service in the first half of 2026, operating across the majority of the carrier’s network of over 30 destinations in the Asia Pacific and North America.

“This one-of-a-kind A320 aircraft will serve as Hong Kong’s ‘ambassador in the sky’, allowing travelers from around the world to experience the charm of the adorable giant pandas at 30,000 feet,” said Jeff Sun, President of Hong Kong Airlines.

Paulo Pong, Chairman of Ocean Park Corporation’s Board, described the collaboration as a milestone for the Panda Friends intellectual property. 

“Hong Kong’s giant pandas will now become international travel ambassadors, amplifying the momentum they have built on the ground,” he said.

The partnership, supported by Hong Kong’s Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, will include joint travel packages featuring bundled flight and park admission tickets. 

Over the next three years, the partners plan to explore additional collaborations including joint marketing campaigns, reciprocal membership benefits, and community outreach programs.

Angelina Cheung, Commissioner for Hong Kong Tourism, said the government will continue working with Ocean Park, the Hong Kong Tourism Board, and various sectors to launch panda-themed promotional activities and merchandise to attract visitors.

The initiative comes as Hong Kong’s tourism industry faces headwinds. According to Colliers, visitor spending fell 19% in 2024, while the average length of stay dropped to 3.2 days from 3.6 days in the first half of the year. Shaman Chellaram, Senior Director of valuation and advisory services at Colliers Hong Kong, attributed the decline to reduced consumer confidence in mainland China and travelers seeking more cost-conscious, experience-driven options.

Competition from destinations like Japan, which offers appealing food, culture, and unique experiences at competitive prices, has also impacted Hong Kong’s tourism sector.

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