HK Express — flights, check-in & baggage guide

HK Express (香港快运航空, IATA: UO) is a low-cost carrier based in Hong Kong, with its main hub at Hong Kong International Airport.

Founded in 2013 and part of 国泰集团.

HK Express, the Cathay Group’s LCC and Hong Kong’s only low-cost carrier, targets Japan, Korea and Southeast Asian leisure routes with frequent promos — one-way fares often drop to a few hundred HKD.

As a low-cost carrier, base fares usually exclude checked baggage and seat selection — check what your fare includes, and buy baggage online in advance to save.

HK Express, established in 2013, sits within 国泰集团; outside the big alliances, it relies on bilateral codeshares for international connectivity. The low-cost formula — single fleet type, high utilisation, ancillary revenue — is what keeps its fares structurally low.

In network terms, HK Express's core strength is Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia leisure routes. At Hong Kong International Airport the airline runs its own check-in zones and premium facilities, and minimum connection times are most reliable there.

Booking tips: always compare the total — base fare plus bags plus seats. Baggage is cheapest bought online in advance and several times dearer at the airport; promo fares carry strict change limits, so avoid flash deals when dates are soft. Check in online where possible — some LCCs charge for counter check-in.