Dragonair airline to expand in China

BEIJING, June 17 (UPI) -- A top executive with Hong Kong-based Dragonair says the airline plans to expand to a number of major destinations throughout China.

Dragonair Chief Executive Officer Kenny Tang said as part of an effort by the airline to strengthen its network, the company will soon begin offering travel services to several other top Chinese destinations, Xinhua, the nation's official news agency, reported Sunday.

"We are pleased to bring more flexibility and convenience for mainland travelers. The addition of these extra services gives travelers more options, while we can help attract more mainland tourists to visit Hong Kong and boost the economy," Tang said.

The airline joined the Cathay Pacific Group last September and enjoyed an increase in Hong Kong tourism during 2006 as well.

Xinhua said in 2006 tourism in the city increased 8.4 percent as more than 13.5 million travelers arrived from the Chinese mainland alone.