Cathay and BA operate flagship nonstops over 12 hours; Gulf stopovers can halve the fare.
Cathay Pacific and British Airways each operate daily nonstops from HKG to LHR, typically departing late evening and arriving early morning UK time. Cathay's A350-1000 is the newer product with wider economy seats; BA uses its 777-300ER fleet with Club World lie-flat in business. The flight tracks northwest over Siberia and Scandinavia, clocking around 12 h 30 min westbound. On Hong Kong - London, compare airport pair HKG -> LHR (mainly) and total trip cost before paying.
Gulf stopovers (Emirates via DXB, Qatar Airways via DOH) split the ultra-long haul into two manageable legs and often price 30-40 percent below the nonstops. The trade-off is 4-6 additional hours each way. Etihad via AUH is another option that sometimes undercuts both. Hong Kong to London fares move quickly, so flexible date checks usually save money.
BNO passport holders have a dedicated UK immigration pathway and can settle in the UK under the BNO visa scheme. HKSAR passport holders need a standard UK visitor visa (apply online, biometrics at VFS Global in Wan Chai). Processing takes 3-6 weeks so plan well ahead of travel. For Hong Kong - London, review carrier mix (Cathay Pacific, British Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways) before choosing a fare bundle.
Cathay generally wins on seat pitch (32 inches vs BA's 31) and meal quality. BA's advantage is Heathrow Terminal 5 arrival (faster connections to domestic UK flights) and Avios earning for frequent flyers. Both are solid options for the 12-plus hour flight.
Emirates or Qatar Airways via their hubs typically save HKD 2,000-5,000 on return fares versus Cathay or BA nonstop. The trade-off is 4-6 extra hours per direction and an additional takeoff-landing cycle.
Yes. HKSAR passport holders require a standard UK visitor visa. Apply online via gov. uk and attend biometrics at VFS Global in Wan Chai.
