Dragonair is to launch direct services between Hong Kong and Shenyang, the capital of Liaoning Province in northeast China, as of March 30.

According to a press release from the Dragonair on Tuesday, the thrice-weekly service, departing on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, will operate via Dalian.

"Shenyang will become the 23rd city we fly to in the Chinese mainland and it is the biggest economic, cultural and industrial hub in the country's northeast," said Dragonair CEO Stanley Hui.

He said by operating to this important city "we shall be strengthening Hong Kong's position as the premier gateway to the Chinese mainland," he added.

Shenyang, which has a population of about 7 million, is well-known for several industries, including machine manufacturing, mining equipment production and vehicle production, and is also a center for science and technology.

Shenyang became one of the cities covered by the Individual Travel Scheme last November, which means residents are able to travel more easily to Hong Kong.

"Our service will facilitate travel for those in the city planning a trip to Hong Kong," noted Hui.

Dragonair is a Hong Kong-based airline. Its passenger network covers 31 destinations across the Asia-Pacific region.

(Xinhua News Agency February 8, 2006)