An earlier version of this post has been updated with new information.
Earlier this year, Hong Kong hatched a tourism-boosting plan to give away more than 500,000 airline tickets to bring international tourists back to the city after the lifting of pandemic restrictions.
So far, the Hello Hong Kong program has already gifted thousands of free flights to travelers in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
On Wednesday, May 17, the flight giveaway finally rolls out to the U.S. market.
On that date, according to a news release, a "limited number" of round-trip economy class tickets to Hong Kong will become available at 8pm ET / 5pm PT.
In the U.S. and Canada, the free tickets will be distributed via Cathay Pacific on a first come, first served basis until Tuesday, May 23, or until supplies run out. Only one ticket per transaction will be allowed.
Although the giveaway covers the ticket's base fare, participants will still be on the hook for any taxes, fees, and surcharges.
To enter for a chance at one of the free flights to Hong Kong, you'll need to sign up at the Cathay Pacific website before May 17. Then return to the Cathay Pacific site during the giveaway window to unlock a unique discount code for booking your flight to Hong Kong (provided there are any left).
According to the airline, the free flights to Hong Kong will depart from the carrier's gateways in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston, and New York (JFK).
Flights from Canada will depart from Vancouver and Toronto; click here to go to the Cathay Pacific webpage for Canada.
In addition to free airline tickets, the Hong Kong Tourism Board is giving out an array of vouchers for "Hong Kong Goodies" such as complimentary welcome drinks at participating bars, restaurants, and hotels, along with vouchers you can redeem for transportation, shopping, and attractions. Most international visitors to Hong Kong are eligible to receive the discounts—even visitors who paid their own airfare to get to the city. Go to the Hello Hong Kong webpage for more information.
As for the free flights to Hong Kong, you'll want to act fast. When tickets were released for trips from Seoul, South Korea, this week, the lot of them were snatched up in less than half an hour.
To sign up and to get more details, including all the terms and conditions, go to the Cathay Pacific website.
Go now!
