Virgin Australia is set to commence five return services between Melbourne and Hong Kong from 5 July.

The Aussie carrier’s proposed alliance with HNA Aviation and Hong Kong Airlines will enable customers to connect through Hong Kong to 13 destinations in mainland China. It will also allow guests from Hainan Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, Capital Airlines and Tianjin Airlines to take advantage of Virgin Australia’s expansive domestic and trans-Tasman network.

Commenting on the new route, the airline’s chief executive officer John Borghetti said: “Virgin Australia’s entry into Hong Kong and Greater China is a key pillar of our international strategy, allowing us to tap into Australia’s fastest growing and most valuable inbound travel market“.

“Travellers to and from Hong Kong will be able to fly in the world’s best Business class and dine on a restaurant-in-the-sky experience designed by resident chef Luke Mangan.” he said.

Today’s announcement follows the ACCC’s interim approval of Virgin Australia’s proposed alliance with HNA Aviation, Hong Kong Airlines and HK Express.

Flights go on sale from Wednesday 22 March.