Full Breakdown
Surge in Lunar New Year Travel from Hong Kong
2/15/2026, 8:03:12 AM
Record Travel Demand During Lunar New Year
As Hong Kong residents prepare for the Lunar New Year, travel to popular destinations such as South Korea, Japan, Vietnam, and mainland China has surged. This year, a favorable calendar arrangement allows residents to enjoy nine consecutive days off by taking only two days of leave, significantly stimulating travel demand. According to Moon Yau Moon-yee, assistant general manager at Sunflower Travel Services, the demand for extended tours has notably increased, with bookings for Yunnan tripling compared to the previous year. The Immigration Department forecasts that 11.38 million passenger movements, including both residents and visitors, are expected between February 14 and 23, marking a 16% increase from last year's Lunar New Year period.
High Volume of Departures
On February 14, the first day of the nine-day break, Hong Kong International Airport experienced a substantial influx of travelers. Long queues formed at check-in counters, particularly for budget airline HK Express, as families and groups prepared to depart. By 10 AM on that day, over 117,220 residents had already left the city, with approximately 27,840 departing via the airport. The Immigration Department anticipated that 636,000 outbound travelers would leave Hong Kong on this single day, contributing to the overall expected passenger movements.
Airport Preparations and Challenges
To accommodate the high volume of travelers, the Airport Authority activated all 229 check-in counters and repurposed part of the arrivals hall into temporary security lanes. Additional staff, referred to as "Holiday Ambassadors," were deployed to assist travelers with digital departure cards, particularly for destinations requiring health declarations. Despite the significant crowds, operations at the airport remained orderly, with officials optimistic about managing the anticipated peak travel times.
Criticism of Travel Costs
While many residents are eager to travel, some have expressed concerns regarding the increased costs associated with holiday travel. One couple planning a self-drive trip to Australia noted that festive-season fares were approximately 40% higher than average, leading them to budget HK $60,000 for their trip. This sentiment reflects a broader concern among travelers about the financial implications of holiday travel during peak seasons.
Official Statements & Responses
The Immigration Department has indicated that February 22 is expected to be the busiest return travel day, with 663,000 arrivals predicted. Authorities have advised travelers to plan for potential delays and to allow extra transit time. The overall sentiment among travel industry representatives is one of optimism, as the long holiday break has invigorated the tourism sector.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This year, office workers only need to take two days of leave to enjoy nine consecutive days off, which has greatly stimulated travel demand,” — Moon Yau Moon-yee, Assistant General Manager, Sunflower Travel Services
This Lunar New Year marks a significant rebound in travel for Hong Kong residents, reflecting both the desire to reconnect with family and the economic recovery of the tourism sector.
