Greater Bay Airlines

Greater Bay Airlines is an ambitious and dynamically developing carrier striving to become the new "wings" for the Greater Bay Area. Based in vibrant Hong Kong, the airline offers travelers a fresh perspective on flying across Asia, combining accessible fares with a high level of service. It is an excellent choice for both tourists dreaming of beaches and neon metropolises, and business people who value punctuality and convenience.

History and Development Strategy

The airline was established with a clear mission — to improve transport accessibility in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau region (Greater Bay Area). Having received its license in 2020 and launched commercial flights in 2022, the company quickly earned passenger trust. Greater Bay Airlines positions itself as a "value carrier," offering an optimal price-quality ratio, allowing tourists to spend more on experiences during their trip rather than on the flight itself.

Flight Network

The company's route network is actively expanding, covering key tourist and business centers in Asia. According to the current schedule, some of the most popular destinations are Taipei and Tokyo, where the highest number of flights are operated. Fans of Japanese culture can also travel to Osaka, Sapporo, or Sendai.

For beach holidays, the airline offers flights to Bangkok, the Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc, or Da Nang. Additionally, regular connections have been established with the Philippines, specifically with the city of Manila. An important part of the network includes flights to mainland Chinese cities such as Quanzhou, Zhoushan, picturesque Zhangjiajie, and historic Xuzhou.

Fleet and Safety

The Greater Bay Airlines fleet consists of time-tested Boeing 737-800 liners. These aircraft are known for their reliability and efficiency on short and medium-haul routes. The company prioritizes flight safety, strictly adhering to the high standards set by the Civil Aviation Department of Hong Kong.

If you have questions regarding bookings, baggage allowances, or flight schedules, the Greater Bay Airlines team is ready to provide necessary support. The airline offers several convenient ways to get in touch, including a phone line, email, and modern digital channels.

Official Website

The most up-to-date information, news, and feedback forms can always be found on the carrier's official resource:

• Website: www.greaterbay-airlines.com

Contact Details

To resolve operational issues, you can use the following channels:

• Customer Service (Hong Kong): +852 2164 3919 (Daily, 09:00 – 20:00)
• Email for General Inquiries: service@greaterbay-airlines.com
• Email for Media: media@greaterbay-airlines.com
• Mobile App: Greater Bay Airlines (available on App Store and Google Play)

Social Media

Follow the company's special offers and news on social networks:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• WeChat

Offices and Representatives

The company's main office is located in close proximity to its base airport:

• Headquarters Address: 12/F, One Citygate, 20 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, Lantau, Hong Kong
• At the Airport: Check-in counters are located in Terminal 1 of Hong Kong International Airport.

Please note: contact details and service hours may change. We recommend checking the current information in the "Contact Us" section on the official website before reaching out.

Understanding baggage rules is the first step towards a peaceful journey without unnecessary expenses at the airport. Greater Bay Airlines offers a flexible fare system that allows passengers to choose only the necessary services. Below is detailed information on how much you can take with you and how to avoid extra charges.

Cabin Baggage: Essentials with You

Regardless of the booking class, every passenger is entitled to carry-on baggage. This allows you to take valuable items, documents, and necessities on board.

• Main Item: 1 bag weighing no more than 7 kg. The sum of the three dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 115 cm, including wheels and handles.
• Personal Item: Additionally, one small item is allowed free of charge, which must fit under the seat in front of you. This can be a handbag, laptop bag, camera bag, or a small backpack.

Tip: Items purchased in Duty Free shops at the airport also count towards the total carry-on allowance. Ensure your purchases along with personal items do not exceed the set limit of 7 kg to avoid having to check them in for an additional fee.

Checked Baggage and Fares

Greater Bay Airlines' policy regarding checked baggage directly depends on the fare you choose. The airline offers three main fare families, allowing for flexible budget planning.

• Go Go: The most budget-friendly fare. Depending on specific promotion conditions or ticket purchase date, baggage might not be included or may be up to 20 kg. We strongly recommend checking the conditions on your itinerary receipt before departure.
• Value Go: The optimal choice for most tourists. Usually includes 1 piece of baggage up to 20 kg.
• Flex Go: A flexible fare that also includes 1 piece of baggage up to 20 kg (or more, depending on the destination) and additional privileges when exchanging tickets.

The maximum size of a single piece of checked baggage must not exceed 158 cm in the sum of three dimensions. For the safety of baggage handlers, the weight of a single suitcase must under no circumstances exceed 32 kg.

Excess Baggage: How to Save

If your suitcases weigh more than the allowance, it is most cost-effective to take care of this in advance. Paying for excess weight directly at the check-in counter at Hong Kong airport or other network cities will cost significantly more.

You can purchase additional baggage (Prepaid Baggage) via the airline's official website or call center. It is recommended to do this no later than 4 hours before the flight departure.

Special Baggage

Special rules apply for transporting non-standard items:

• Sports Equipment: Bicycles, golf gear, diving equipment, or skis are not included in the free baggage allowance. Their transport is paid separately according to special rates. Equipment must be securely packed in protective cases.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be taken into the cabin if they fit within carry-on dimensions. Large instruments (e.g., cellos) may require purchasing a separate seat in the cabin or checking them in a hard case.

Prohibited Items and Restrictions

Flight safety is a priority for Greater Bay Airlines. The following items are strictly regulated:

• Power Banks and Lithium Batteries: Allowed ONLY in carry-on baggage. Checking them in registered baggage is strictly prohibited. Battery capacity must not exceed 160 Wh.
• Liquids in Carry-on: When departing from most international airports, liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of no more than 100 ml each, packed in a single transparent re-sealable bag with a volume of no more than 1 liter.
• Prohibited for Transport: Explosives, flammable liquids, gases, poisons, and other dangerous materials are completely prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To ensure your journey, whether a short visit to Taipei or a vacation in Bangkok, goes smoothly, use these recommendations:

Weigh your suitcases at home before leaving for the airport to avoid stress at the check-in counter. Mark your luggage with a bright ribbon or a tag with contact details — this will help locate it faster on the carousel or in case of loss. Always take valuables, money, electronics, and important medication with you into the aircraft cabin.

When planning a trip with Greater Bay Airlines, it is important to consider the airline's strict policy regarding the transport of living creatures. Currently, the carrier adheres to rules that differ significantly from many other airlines.

General Restrictions: Pets

The airline does not accept pets for transport. This rule is strict and has no exceptions for ordinary household pets, regardless of their size, weight, or breed.

• In the Cabin: Transporting cats, dogs, birds, and other animals in carry-on baggage is prohibited.
• In Checked Baggage: Transporting animals in the cargo hold as registered baggage is also not carried out.

If you plan to fly with a pet, you will need to consider the services of other carriers or specialized transport companies (cargo) not associated with Greater Bay Airlines passenger flights.

Exception: Guide Dogs and Assistance Dogs

The only exception to the "no animals" rule is certified Assistance Dogs accompanying passengers with disabilities. The airline strives to ensure an accessible environment and accepts such service dogs in the aircraft cabin free of charge subject to a number of strict conditions.

Booking and Notification Requirements

To ensure the journey goes smoothly, the passenger is obliged to notify the airline of the intention to fly with a guide dog in advance.

• Notification Period: You must contact Customer Service no later than 48 hours before flight departure.
• Check-in: It is recommended to arrive at the airport early (at least 2–3 hours) to pass the document check without rushing.

Required Documents

To allow the dog on board, a full package of documents will be required at check-in and at the gate. Absence of any paper will result in refusal of carriage.

• Accreditation Certificate: A document confirming that the dog has been trained by an organization accredited by the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) or Assistance Dogs International (ADI).
• Dog's ID: An official document or card issued by an accredited organization.
• Veterinary Documents: A valid vaccination certificate and a health certificate.
• Entry/Transit Permits: All necessary permits from veterinary and quarantine services of the countries of departure, transit, and destination. This is especially important for flights to Hong Kong, Tokyo, Taipei, and other cities with strict veterinary control.

Onboard Behavior Rules

During the flight, the assistance dog must be under the full control of the owner.

• The animal must sit or lie on the floor at the passenger's feet. The dog is prohibited from occupying a passenger seat.
• The dog must be on a leash and in a harness throughout the flight.
• The airline recommends (and in some cases may require) the use of a muzzle.
• The animal must not obstruct aisles or exits, including emergency exits.

Important: The passenger bears full responsibility for having all permitting documents. If upon arrival in Bangkok, Manila, or another destination the animal is denied entry due to lack of documents, all deportation or quarantine expenses fall on the owner.

Greater Bay Airlines Loyalty Program

Currently, Greater Bay Airlines (HB) is in an active development stage and has not yet introduced a classic loyalty program with mileage accumulation similar to those of legacy carriers. The company positions itself as a "Value Carrier," where the main reward for the tourist is affordable ticket prices and transparency of services without hidden markups for unnecessary options.

Privilege Levels (Fare Families)

Since there are no traditional status cards (Silver or Gold) yet, the level of comfort and privileges during travel depends on the chosen fare family. Effectively, by purchasing a higher class ticket, you immediately receive services usually available to elite members:

• Go Go (Basic Level): Analogous to entry-level participation. Maximum savings, includes only carry-on baggage (7 kg). Seat selection is paid. Ideal for light weekend trips.
• Value Go (Optimal Level): The most popular choice. Includes checked baggage (20 kg) and the possibility of rebooking with a fee.
• Flex Go (Premium Level): Provides maximum freedom. Includes an increased baggage allowance (20 kg), free seat selection in the cabin (including front rows), and priority when changing plans.

Earning Benefits

Instead of virtual miles, the airline offers direct financial benefit. The system is built on the principle of "pay only for what you use":

• For Flights: You don't accumulate points for distance, but save budget immediately upon purchase, especially on popular routes like those to Taipei or Tokyo.
• Partner Offers: Periodically, the company launches joint promotions with Hong Kong banks and travel platforms, offering discounts to holders of certain cards.

Using Advantages

Since there is no points system, you can "spend" loyalty through utilizing flexible fare conditions:

• Free Seat Selection: Available immediately when purchasing the Flex Go fare.
• No Penalties: Flexible fares allow changing the departure date with lower financial losses.

Alliance Participation

• Status: Greater Bay Airlines is not part of global aviation alliances (such as Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld).
• Partners: The company develops interline agreements and partnerships individually to expand the route network beyond its hub in Hong Kong.

How to Join and Stay Informed

Although miles are not accrued yet, registering in the airline's system is useful for managing trips:

• Download the Greater Bay Airlines mobile app.
• Register a "Member" personal account to book tickets faster.
• Subscribe to the newsletter to be the first to know about sales (for example, on flights to Bangkok or Osaka) and the launch of a full-fledged bonus program in the future.

Traveling with Greater Bay Airlines is a modern take on air travel, where efficiency and affordability are paramount. The airline positions itself as a "value carrier," which is reflected in the set of services: passengers receive quality basic service but pay only for the additional options they truly need.

Travel Classes

Unlike traditional full-service airlines, Greater Bay Airlines operates Boeing 737-800 aircraft in a single-class configuration (Economy Class). Here you will not find a separate Business or First Class cabin with wide lie-flat seats. This strategy allows the carrier to offer more favorable fares for tickets to Hong Kong and other popular Asian cities.

Despite the absence of business class, comfort levels can be enhanced:

• Standard Seats: The cabin features a classic 3-3 configuration. These are modern seats suitable for medium-haul flights (up to 4–5 hours).
• Extra Legroom Seats: Passengers can choose seats in the front rows or at emergency exits for an additional fee (or as part of the Flex Go fare). This is an excellent choice for tall travelers flying, for example, to Tokyo or Bangkok.

Food and Beverages

The airline's concept involves flexibility regarding meals. Hot lunches are usually not included in the basic cost of the cheapest tickets, allowing savings for those who prefer to eat at the airport before departure.

• Pre-order: If you want to be guaranteed a hot meal on board, it is recommended to order it in advance via the website when booking your ticket. The menu includes Asian and Western cuisine dishes.
• Onboard Purchase: During the flight, flight attendants offer an assortment of snacks, instant noodles, refreshing beverages, and hot drinks available for purchase separately.
• Water: On most flights, passengers are offered a bottle of water; however, rules may change, so bringing your own bottle of water (purchased after security check) is always a good idea.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Greater Bay Airlines aircraft do not have built-in multimedia screens in seatbacks. Also, Wi-Fi service is currently not provided.

To avoid boredom en route, we recommend preparing in advance:

• Download movies, music, or e-books to your smartphone or tablet before departure.
• Take a fully charged power bank with you (in carry-on baggage), as USB outlets may not be available on all fleet aircraft.
• Enjoy the views: flights to Taipei or Phu Quoc often pass over picturesque territories.

Comfort and Atmosphere

The company's main pride is its staff. Greater Bay Airlines flight attendants embody the spirit of Hong Kong hospitality. Service is provided in Cantonese, English, and Mandarin. The crew is always ready to help with stowing carry-on baggage and answering passenger questions.

Special Services

The airline ensures that flying is accessible to all categories of passengers. A number of special services must be ordered in advance through customer support:

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Assistance with boarding and disembarking is provided, as well as a wheelchair (WCHR) for moving through the terminal and to the aircraft.
• Traveling with Children: Although bassinets for infants are usually not provided on Boeing 737s, families with children are given priority boarding. Baby food should be brought with you or ordered in advance.
• Pregnant Women: Air travel is permitted up to certain stages of pregnancy (usually up to 32-36 weeks) with a medical certificate. We recommend clarifying exact terms before purchasing a ticket.

The route network of Greater Bay Airlines is built around its strategic hub in Hong Kong, ensuring convenient connections with key metropolises and resorts in Asia. The airline offers high flight frequency on popular destinations, linking the Greater Bay Area with cities in Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, and mainland China.

Planning a trip with a young and dynamic airline requires knowing certain nuances that will help save money and reduce stress. We have gathered proven recommendations for you so that your flight with Greater Bay Airlines is as comfortable as possible.

Best Time to Book

As with most value carriers, ticket prices here depend directly on demand and time of purchase. To find the lowest fares on popular flights to Tokyo or Bangkok, try to book your flight at least 3–4 weeks before the departure date. If you plan to travel during "high season" (for example, Chinese New Year or May holidays), it is better to take care of the purchase 2–3 months in advance.

How to Find Discounts and Promotions

The airline is actively expanding its route network and often launches promotions timed to the opening of new destinations or public holidays. To not miss out on savings:

• Subscribe to the official newsletter on the carrier's website — this is where sale announcements appear first.
• Follow the company's pages on social media.
• When searching for tickets to Taipei, Manila, or other cities, use the function to view prices for adjacent dates — sometimes shifting the trip by one day allows saving up to 20% of the cost.

Online Check-in and Airport

Do not waste time in queues. Online Check-in for Greater Bay Airlines flights usually opens 48 hours and closes 90 minutes before the scheduled departure time. By completing this procedure on the website or in the app, you can choose a seat in advance and, if flying without checked baggage, proceed directly to security and passport control at Hong Kong airport.

Seat Selection Tips

All flights are operated on Boeing 737-800 aircraft with a classic 3-3 cabin layout.

• For View Lovers: Book Window seats in advance. Approaching Phu Quoc or landing in Osaka (Kansai Airport on an artificial island) will offer you unforgettable panoramas.
• For Comfort: If you are taller than average, consider paying extra for seats in the first rows or at emergency exits, where legroom is significantly increased.

Mobile App

Be sure to download the Greater Bay Airlines app before departure. It is your "digital assistant" that allows you to:

• Have an electronic boarding pass at hand (eco-friendly and convenient).
• Promptly receive notifications about flight status changes or gate numbers.
• Quickly purchase extra baggage if your souvenirs from a trip to Quanzhou or Da Nang do not fit into carry-on allowances.

Insurance

When purchasing the most affordable fares (Go Go), which are often non-refundable or involve high penalties for changes, it is strongly recommended to take out trip cancellation insurance. This is a small investment that will protect your budget in case of illness or unforeseen changes in plans.

The history of Greater Bay Airlines (HB) is an example of boldness and strategic vision in modern aviation. The airline was founded during one of the most challenging periods for the global tourism industry but managed to turn challenges into opportunities, quickly occupying the niche of a reliable carrier in the Greater Bay Area (Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area).

Founding and Licensing

The company was established in 2020 by prominent entrepreneur Bill Wong (Bill Wong Cho-bau), who already had extensive experience in the aviation industry. The main goal of creating the new carrier was to strengthen Hong Kong's position as an international aviation hub amidst a changing market.

The path to the first flight was thorough and systematic. In October 2021, the airline received its Air Operator's Certificate (AOC), and in February 2022 — a license to operate scheduled air transport services. This opened the doors for launching commercial flights as soon as global pandemic-related restrictions allowed.

First Flight and Start of Commercial Operations

A landmark date in the history of Greater Bay Airlines was July 23, 2022. It was on this day that the first scheduled passenger flight from Hong Kong to Bangkok took place. The successful launch of the route to the capital of Thailand demonstrated the company's readiness to serve international destinations and kick-started active expansion.

Growth Strategy Instead of Mergers

Unlike many competitors whose history is full of complex mergers and acquisitions, Greater Bay Airlines chose the path of organic growth. The company was created "from scratch," which allowed it to initially build an efficient business model unburdened by outdated structures or past debts. The airline filled a market vacuum by offering passengers an alternative between expensive traditional airlines and low-cost carriers.

Fleet Evolution and Looking to the Future

In the initial stage, the company's fleet was formed from time-tested Boeing 737-800 aircraft. These machines, known for their reliability, became the workhorses for the first routes.

However, the management's ambitions extend far beyond using pre-owned vessels. A major milestone in development was the signing of an agreement in March 2023 to purchase 15 brand new Boeing 737-9 (MAX) liners. The delivery of these aircraft will mark a new era for HB: they will be equipped with more modern cabins, onboard Wi-Fi, and improved entertainment systems, as well as allow for a significant reduction in carbon footprint.

Launch of Key Routes

After a successful start with Bangkok, the airline began rapidly expanding its flight geography, focusing on destinations most in demand by tourists:

• North Asia: Frequent flights were launched to Taipei and Tokyo, which instantly became sales hits. Later, the network was joined by the cultural capital Osaka and northern Sapporo.
• Southeast Asia: Besides Thailand, the route map was supplemented by flights to Manila, as well as resort destinations in Vietnam — to the island of Phu Quoc and to Da Nang.
• Mainland China: Strengthening ties with the region, the carrier established connections with cities such as Quanzhou, Zhoushan, and picturesque Zhangjiajie.

Modern Developments

Today, Greater Bay Airlines is actively implementing digital innovations, improving its mobile app and online booking system. The company continues to develop as a "value carrier," offering passengers flexibility in choosing services and access to a wide network of routes across Asia, including even such unique destinations as Xuzhou and Huangshan.