Delta Air Lines has officially resumed nonstop flights between Los Angeles and Hong Kong, marking its return to the route after an eight-year absence. The inaugural flight, DL89, departed Los Angeles on June 6 and arrived at Hong Kong International Airport on June 8 following a journey of approximately 15 hours.
The arrival was celebrated with a traditional water cannon salute, while the return flight, DL88, departed Hong Kong after a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the departure gate. Passengers on the inaugural return service also received commemorative gifts marking the airline’s long-awaited return to the city.
The route is operated daily using the Airbus A350-900 and covers roughly 7,243 miles, making it one of Delta’s longest services from the U.S. West Coast. Each flight is staffed by four pilots, including two captains and two first officers, who rotate duties during the ultra-long-haul journey.
Adding a personal touch to the milestone flight was First Officer Victor Ngai, who grew up in Hong Kong watching aircraft at the historic Kai Tak Airport. Flying into his hometown as a Delta pilot fulfilled a lifelong dream, making the airline’s return even more meaningful.