Gatwick is gaining a long-haul boost with plans by Cathay Pacific to start flights to Hong Kong.
The airline wants to fly four times a week on the route from September 2, 2016, subject to government approval.
Cathay Pacific will be the only airline that flies non-stop between Gatwick and Hong Kong.
The new service will complement the airline’s current five flights a week service from Heathrow
The new service from Gatwick’s South Terminal will be operated by a new Airbus A350-900 in a four class configuration.
Cathay Pacific general manager Europe, Neil Glenn, said: “Cathay Pacific has been flying between London and Hong Kong for 35 years and our commitment to the UK market remains strong.
“We are delighted to launch a non-stop service from Gatwick to Hong Kong, using our new state-of-the-art A350 aircraft, which will help meet increasing demand for both business and leisure travel between the Asia Pacific region and the UK.
“These additional flights between London and Hong Kong will provide our passengers with greater choice and flexibility and, at the same time, continue to boost Hong Kong’s standing as an international aviation hub.”
Gatwick chief commercial officer, Guy Stephenson, added: “Hong Kong is the premier gateway to China and the wider Far East and we are delighted to welcome Cathay Pacific to Gatwick.
“This new scheduled service compliments Gatwick’s rapidly growing network of long haul services, which now boasts over 40 destinations on five continents.”