Bangladesh, June 3 -- Cathay Pacific has announced plans to launch direct flights between Hong Kong and Almaty, Kazakhstan, in the first quarter of 2027, marking its first destination in Central Asia.

The airline will operate three weekly flights using Airbus A330-300 aircraft, creating the only direct air link between Hong Kong and Kazakhstan.

The announcement was made during a Hong Kong government-led visit to Central Asia. Cathay Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau said, the new route will strengthen connectivity with a strategically important Belt and Road market and create opportunities for trade, tourism, and investment.

Kazakhstan is Hong Kong's largest trading partner in Central Asia and has seen growing demand d...