OREANDA-NEWS. July 15, 2010. Moscow Domodedovo Airport and Cathay Pacific Airways celebrate the launch of the first scheduled flight on a new destination to be operated by Airbus A340-300 with a new enhanced cabin three times a week to the capital of Russia from Hong Kong.

Speaking at the ribbon-cutting ceremony at Moscow Domodedovo Airport, Cathay Pacific’s Director Corporate Affairs, Quince Chong, said: “We believe the new service will bring closer business, tourism, culture and personal ties of friendship between Moscow and Hong Kong.”

Ms Chong told the media that the airline has been looking for opportunities to enter the Russian market for many years and considers the new service as a milestone in the route network development. “We have long recognized the enormous potential of Russia. The new service underscores our long-term commitment to expand Cathay Pacific route network, offer high quality services to our customers and boost the status of Hong Kong as Asia’s premier aviation hub,” she added.

Ms Chong and the crew on the first flight to Domodedovo airport received a warm welcome upon their arrival. The guests were met by young women dressed in Russian national costumes and traditional treat as a gesture of the host country’s hospitality was offered.

All passengers of the first flight from Moscow and Hong Kong were presented with souvenirs to mark the event.

Hong Kong is one of the three destinations in the People’s Republic of China connected to Moscow Domodedovo Airport. The airport making a share of 52% is the leader of Moscow Aviation Hub in Asian segment. Also the last 8 years demonstrated an increase in passenger traffic volumes to Asian countries by 20 times approximately.