Cathay Pacific has expanded its Airbus A350 network with flights to Dusseldorf and its new service to London’s Gatwick Airport.

The Gatwick flight is Cathay Pacific’s first UK long-haul route served by the A350-900, and the airport says it will encourage growth of trading links with China and the Far East. The Gatwick – Hong Kong service that started today (2 September) will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

Cathay Pacific started Dusseldorf – Hong Kong flights in September 2015 and was upgraded to the A350-900 on 1 September.

Gatwick Airport chief commercial officer, Guy Stephenson says: “Hong Kong is the premier gateway to China and we are delighted to welcome Cathay Pacific – one of the World’s premier airlines – to Gatwick.”

“The new flights mark an important milestone in the growth of the Gatwick long haul network, which now more than ever provides the UK economy with vital routes into the World’s most important markets.”

The Cathay Pacific flight is Gatwick’s third new Chinese route following Tianjin Airlines launching Gatwick – Chongqing – Tianjin services in June.