On November 1, Dragonair officially became a member of oneworld, the leading quality global airline alliance, connecting oneworld customers from all around the world to various destinations in Mainland China through the Hong Kong hub.

"Becoming an affiliate member of oneworld is a very exciting development for Dragonair," said Dragonair Chief Executive Officer Kenny Tang, who marked the occasion by helping to put the first oneworld decal onto a Dragonair aircraft at Hong Kong International Airport. "Joining the alliance represents another significant step in our progression since becoming part of the Cathay Pacific Group last year."

Dragonair's joining means a total of 15 new destinations will be added to oneworld's existing network - 12 of them in Mainland China - meaning the alliance will serve around 700 destinations in almost 150 countries and territories worldwide. The addition of Dragonair further strengthens oneworld's position as the world's leading quality airline alliance, at the same time providing greater choice and more convenience for customers.

"Dragonair has an extensive network offering more than 20 destinations and about 400 flights a week to Mainland China. Our strong market presence in the Mainland will give passengers greater access to this fast-growing market, and at the same time we can help people connect with our growing network of niche destinations around the region," added Mr. Tang.

oneworld Managing Partner John McCulloch said: "Since its launch eight years ago, oneworld has been the only alliance with a member from greater China, in our Hong Kong-based founder member Cathay Pacific. The addition of Dragonair means that oneworld will maintain its lead in this important, fast-growing region. With our combination of Dragonair, Cathay Pacific and the award-winning Hong Kong hub, it means that oneworld will offer the best quality airline service for travel to or from the whole of China."

Photograph: Dragonair Chief Executive Officer Kenny Tang helps put the first oneworld decal onto a Dragonair aircraft at Hong Kong International Airport.