Secretary for Economic Development & Labour Stephen Ip (left), Secretary for Commerce, Industry and Technology Henry Tang (centre), and Dragonair Chief Executive Officer Stanley Hui (right) took to the skies to convey a message of confidence in Hong Kong's travel industry

They were speaking to the press during a "Flight of Confidence" - a special two-hour flight around Hong Kong organized by Dragonair to restore public confidence in flying. In a strong show of solidarity and confidence in Hong Kong's aviation and travel industry, some 50 guests, including senior government officials, members of business chambers and federations, tourism industry leaders and Dragonair management and staff, were onboard the A330.

“With today's flight we are highlighting the fact that we and our partners in the travel industry have taken decisive measures to help prevent the spread of SARS, and reinforce the message from the World Health Organisation (WHO) that air travel is safe," said Mr Hui.
 
Mr David Pang said that "Operation Skyfit", a multi-million dollar package aimed at revitalising the travel industry, would restore confidence in Hong Kong.

"Two things are preventing visitors coming back - fear, and lack of confidence. We are tailoring Operation Skyfit to dispel these fears and build up confidence, and demonstrate that Hong Kong, and Hong Kong International Airport is safe, secure and healthy," said Mr Pang.
 
"We'll be recovering soon," said Mr Hui. "We're seeing an increase in bookings already, although it is only the beginning after the travel advisory was lifted. There is a lot of pent-up demand for travel, especially from business people. Today's flight is but one of the initiatives that we hope will set the airline business back on the flightpath to recovery.”

Related links:
Hong Kong Dragon Airlines www.dragonair.com
Operation Skyfit www.hkairport.com/eng/aboutus/display_pr_content.jsp?cid=442