HK Express Named World’s Best Low-Cost Carrier 2026 by AirlineRatings

From World’s Safest to also World’s Best — Setting a New Benchmark for Low-Cost Travel in Asia

Hong Kong, 19 March 2026 – HK Express Airways (HK Express) has been named the World’s Best Low-Cost Carrier 2026 by AirlineRatings, the global airline safety and product rating organisation.

The recognition follows its recent recognition as the World’s Safest Low-Cost Carrier, marking a notable milestone for Hong Kong’s only home-grown low-cost carrier. Rising from #4 globally last year to #1 in 2026, the achievement reflects HK Express’s commitment not only to safety and operational excellence, but also to elevating the customer experience at every stage of the journey.

Over the past year, HK Express expanded its network across Asia while strengthening its capacity, carried nearly 8 million passengers in 2025 — representing one in every eight travellers at Hong Kong International Airport. We also maintained strong operational reliability with an annual average on-time performance rate of 84%, underscoring its consistency amid a period of continued expansion.

Sharon Petersen, CEO of AirlineRatings, said: “HK Express may not appear the obvious choice for the world’s best low-cost carrier. What sets it apart, however, is the strength of the onboard experience it consistently delivers. From exceptional and reliable cabin crew service to comfortable Recaro SL3710 seating on majority of its aircraft fleet, the airline demonstrates that low cost does not mean low quality.

Its onboard menu is a defining highlight, offering authentic Hong Kong flavours — including traditional street food favourites — alongside international selections. The culinary experience is thoughtfully curated and becomes as much a part of the journey as the destination itself. In the low-cost sector, achieving this balance of service, comfort and value is not easy. For 2026, HK Express has clearly positioned itself among the world’s best in class.”

Jeanette Mao, CEO of HK Express, said: “I am immensely proud that we have been named the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline. This honour belongs to every member of our team — their unwavering professionalism, care for customers, and commitment to safety and value have made this achievement possible. 

We are deeply grateful to our customers for their continued trust and support. Their confidence motivates us to keep improving and to make travel across Asia more accessible and rewarding. As we grow, we remain committed to strengthening Hong Kong’s connectivity and delivering value with every journey."

As a member of the Cathay Group, HK Express will continue contributing to Hong Kong’s position as a key international aviation hub and super-connector between the Greater Bay Area and Asia.