Explore what Ocean Park is all about.
At a pivotal moment, as Hong Kong’s aviation industry marks its full recovery and the global travel market is revitalised, Hong Kong Airlines and Ocean Park today announced the signing of a three-year strategic partnership agreement. The collaboration will be spearheaded by a specially commissioned aircraft featuring a full livery of Ocean Park’s beloved Panda Friends IP. This partnership signals a joint commitment to merge aviation services with premier tourism and entertainment experiences, showcasing Hong Kong’s unique appeal to a global audience and injecting powerful new momentum into the city’s tourism industry.
To commemorate this significant milestone, the signing ceremony was held at Ocean Park’s landmark Giant Panda Adventure exhibit. Mr Jeff Sun, President of Hong Kong Airlines, and Mr Ivan Wong, Chief Executive of Ocean Park Corporation, officially signed the agreement, witnessed by Mrs Cheung Fung Wing Ping, Angelina, JP, Commissioner for Tourism of Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau; 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 giant 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 Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, 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 Mark the Launch
The centrepiece of the partnership’s initial phase is undoubtedly the new panda-themed aircraft. The aircraft’s livery artfully incorporates Ocean Park’s popular Panda Friends IP, including the beloved twin giant panda characters – elder sister Jia Jia and little brother De De – born and raised in Hong Kong. More than just a mode of transport, this aircraft will act as an ‘airborne conservation ambassador’, carrying Hong Kong’s compelling stories and conservation ethos to the world. By leveraging the universal appeal of giant pandas and the international reputation of Ocean Park, both partners aim to attract more families and young travellers to visit Hong Kong and immerse themselves in its diverse culture and natural beauty.
Diverse Tourism Products and Marketing Initiatives to Follow
To simplify travel planning for visitors, Hong Kong Airlines and Ocean Park will jointly launch travel packages. These will feature attractive flight and admission ticket bundles, enabling a seamless journey for travellers to meet the beloved giant pandas.
Looking ahead over the next three years, the partners will continue to explore further innovative collaborations, including joint marketing campaigns, reciprocal membership benefits, and community outreach programmes. Together, they will contribute to enhancing Hong Kong’s overall appeal as a premier international travel destination and jointly champion the development of the city’s cultural and tourism sectors.
