Dragonair (Cathay Dragon): A Legacy of Regional Excellence Dragonair, later rebranded as Cathay Dragon, was a well-respected regional airline based in Hong Kong. Operating from 1985 to 2020, the airline served as a critical connector between Hong Kong and cities across Mainland China and Asia, earning a reputation for reliability, premium service, and deep local knowledge. Originally launched as Hong Kong Dragon Airlines, the carrier quickly became known for its strong focus on Mainland China routes—at a time when few international carriers had extensive access to the Chinese market. Dragonair played a vital role in fostering trade, tourism, and family connections throughout the region. Integration with the Cathay Pacific Group In 2006, Dragonair became a wholly owned subsidiary of Cathay Pacific Airways. This strategic move allowed for better coordination of schedules, enhanced customer service, and seamless code-sharing between the two carriers. In 2016, the airline was rebranded as Cathay Dragon, aligning more closely with the Cathay Pacific identity while continuing to serve its core markets. Operating primarily from Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), Cathay Dragon focused on short- and medium-haul destinations, including cities in Mainland China, Southeast Asia, Japan, Korea, and India. The airline operated a fleet of Airbus A320s, A321s, and A330s, providing both Economy and Business Class services with a touch of traditional Chinese hospitality. Closure During the COVID-19 Pandemic In October 2020, due to the dramatic downturn in air travel caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Cathay Pacific Group announced the closure of Cathay Dragon as part of a corporate restructuring plan. Its routes were integrated into Cathay Pacific and its low-cost affiliate, HK Express. Although the airline ceased operations, Cathay Dragon’s legacy lives on—especially its role in connecting Hong Kong with second- and third-tier cities in China, and its reputation for service excellence in regional aviation. Highlights of Dragonair (Cathay Dragon): Operated from 1985 to 2020 Specialized in Mainland China and Asian routes Known for high-quality regional service Merged into Cathay Pacific Group during restructuring Though no longer flying, Dragonair (Cathay Dragon) remains a cherished chapter in Hong Kong’s aviation history.