It’s official: Cathay Pacific’s direct flights from Hong Kong (HKG) to Brussels (BRU) are back, and they’re off to a flying start! The relaunched route took to the skies on August 3, 2025, reconnecting these two global hubs after a five-year break. Two days in, the buzz is real—Flight CX294 soared out of Hong Kong at 11:25 PM on Saturday, landing in Brussels at 5:55 AM Sunday, while the return CX293 lifted off from Brussels at 4:15 PM, touching down in Hong Kong at 6:55 AM Monday. Cathay’s brought Belgium back into the fold, and travelers are already hooked on this seamless link!
A Stellar Launch Weekend
The Airbus A350-900 made its mark on this route with a flawless debut. Packed with 38 lie-flat business class seats, 28 premium economy spots, and 214 economy seats, the first flight was a showcase of Cathay’s long-haul magic—quiet cabins, top-tier service, and a ride that turned 12 hours and 30 minutes into a breeze. The return leg, clocking in at 11 hours and 30 minutes, was just as smooth, with early reports from passengers praising the early Brussels arrival (perfect for a full day ahead) and the comfy A350 setup.

This isn’t Cathay’s first dance with Brussels—they flew this route from March 2018 until the pandemic grounded it in 2020. Now, with four weekly flights (Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays), it’s back and better than ever. Heads up: the Brussels departure shifts to 1:25 PM starting August 13, but this weekend’s 4:15 PM takeoff gave travelers a relaxed send-off. The vibe? Pure excitement—Hong Kongers and Bruxellois alike are thrilled to skip the layovers.
Brussels: The Heart of Europe, Reconnected
Brussels is a gem worth the hype. As the EU and NATO’s nerve center, it’s a business travel hotspot—perfect for Hong Kong’s dealmakers. But it’s also a playground for foodies and explorers, with its chocolate shops, crispy waffles, and medieval Grand Place. Last year, 35,000 Belgians jetted to Hong Kong, and this route’s return is set to supercharge that flow. From Hong Kong, you can connect to 19 mainland China cities or beyond via Cathay and HK Express, while Brussels hooks you up with oneworld partners for European jaunts. It’s a two-way street paved with opportunity.

Cathay’s European Power Play
This Brussels relaunch is a key piece of Cathay Pacific’s European puzzle. By summer 2025, they’re running 93 weekly return flights to 11 cities, up from 78 before. Here’s the full lineup from Hong Kong:
- London (LHR): 5 daily flights (35 weekly)
- Amsterdam (AMS): Daily (7 weekly)
- Frankfurt (FRA): Daily (7 weekly)
- Manchester (MAN): Daily (7 weekly)
- Milan (MXP): Daily (7 weekly)
- Paris (CDG): Daily (7 weekly)
- Zurich (ZRH): Daily (7 weekly)
- Madrid (MAD): 4 weekly
- Barcelona (BCN): 4 weekly (summer seasonal)
- Munich (MUC): 4 weekly (since June 16, 2025)
- Brussels (BRU): 4 weekly (since August 3, 2025)
Brussels joins Munich (launched June 16) as Cathay’s latest European wins, pushing their global network toward that 100-destination goal by year-end. It’s a comeback story with wings.

Why This Route’s a Keeper
Two days in, and the Hong Kong-Brussels link is already proving its mojo. No more detours—just a direct, 12-hour hop on a plane built for comfort. Business travelers are eyeing Brussels’ political clout, while leisure folks are plotting chocolate runs and Bruges side trips. The A350-900’s flat beds and extra legroom are icing on the cake, and Cathay’s service? Still world-class.
The launch weekend’s success—packed flights, happy faces—shows this route’s got legs (or wings, rather). Bookings are rolling for the next flights, and with summer 2025 in full swing, it’s prime time to jump on board. Cathay Pacific’s back in Brussels, and it’s a match made in travel heaven. Where’s your next stop?
Discover more from Welcome to the Ultimate Guide to points, miles and travels in Hong Kong
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

