The deal was complete on Friday (19 July) after Cathay bought the airline from the Chinese HNA Group.

While the LCC will be a wholly owned subsidiary of the Hong Kong scheduled carrier, Cathay Pacific chief executive and HK Express chairman Rupert Hogg moved to assure consumers it will be business as usual.

He added: “We are very excited to welcome HK Express into the group.

“We strongly believe that the acquisition is good for the travelling public, good for HK Express, good for the Cathay Pacific Group, and good for the development of Hong Kong as a global aviation hub.

“HK Express will continue to operate as a stand-alone airline using the low-cost carrier business model.

“I would also like to reassure HK Express customers that there is no change to the airline’s operating model and that business will continue as usual.

“There will be more value fares and more destinations available to travellers.

“We look forward to working with the HK Express teams to ensure a smooth transition and to continue to grow the airline in order to better serve its customers.

“Our respective businesses and business models are largely complementary.

“HK Express captures a unique market segment that, together with the extensive network offered by the Cathay Pacific Group, could multiply connection opportunities through Hong Kong.

“This will bring tremendous benefits to the travelling public with more choices and greater convenience for their travel experience.”