Important Information
Stay informed on the latest Super Typhoon Ragasa updates in Hong Kong:
- Track the storm in real time via the Hong Kong Observatory official website.
- Monitor live aircraft movements and delays at Hong Kong International Airport on Flightradar24.
- Get official Cathay Pacific flight status, delays, and cancellation updates.
- Read the latest announcements and advisories on the Cathay Pacific news page.
- Hong Kong Airport arrival and departure board.
This story will be updated with further information on flight cancellations, airline rebooking policies, and Hong Kong travel disruptions as Super Typhoon Ragasa develops.
Super Typhoon Ragasa Set to Bring Winds of 210km/h to Hong Kong, Stronger Than 2017’s Hato
Tropical Storm Ragasa is rapidly strengthening and is expected to hit Hong Kong midweek as a super typhoon, bringing winds of up to 210km/h (130mph) — stronger than those recorded during Super Typhoon Hato in 2017. Hong Kong is preparing for the arrival of Super Typhoon Ragasa, with authorities issuing a storm surge warning that could cause severe flooding and damage in coastal areas. In response, Hong Kong Airlines (HX), Cathay Pacific (CX), and HK Express (UO) are taking the extraordinary step of evacuating their fleets from Hong Kong International Airport to protect aircraft from harm.
The scale of this precaution highlights the seriousness of the storm. The last full evacuation of this kind took place in 2018 during super typhoon Songda. Even during other powerful storms -such as super typhoon Sula in 2023 and Typhoon Weipa in 2025 - airlines did not move their entire fleets out of Hong Kong.
The Hong Kong Observatory has warned that tropical cyclone Ragasa is expected to strengthen into a super typhoon as it moves toward the region in the coming days, raising the prospect of severe weather for the city midweek.
Forecasters said on Saturday that Ragasa would intensify significantly while passing near the Luzon Strait before edging closer to the Guangdong coast. Local weather is forecast to deteriorate gradually from Tuesday, with gale- to storm-force winds expected to prevail on Wednesday. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are also anticipated.
“Under the influence of significant storm surge, the sea level over coastal areas by then may be similar to that of Hato in 2017 and Mangkhut in 2018,” the Observatory said, referring to two of the strongest typhoons to strike Hong Kong in recent memory.
The warning comes after the Observatory cancelled all signals related to tropical depression Mitag earlier in the day as that system moved away from the city.
Airlines Respond with Free Rebooking
Airlines have begun to implement flexible travel policies in anticipation of Ragasa’s potential impact on flight operations.
- Cathay Pacific said it would waive rebooking and rerouting charges for flights departing from or arriving in Hong Kong between Tuesday and Thursday.
- Greater Bay Airlines announced passengers departing during the same period could rebook flights within seven days of their original departure date. Those scheduled to fly on Wednesday can also request refunds within 14 days, with all associated fees waived.
- Hong Kong Airlines said it expected delays or cancellations from Tuesday to Thursday and would waive rebooking and rerouting fees for affected services.
The proactive steps by carriers reflect the likelihood of widespread cancellations and delays if Ragasa tracks close to Hong Kong at super typhoon strength. Passengers are being urged to monitor airline announcements closely and adjust travel plans early.
Airline Evacuations and Flight Suspensions
Hong Kong’s two main carriers are preparing contingency plans to evacuate their fleets from Hong Kong International Airport ahead of Super Typhoon Ragasa, in what could become one of the largest precautionary operations seen in years.
Industry sources indicate that Hong Kong Airlines may begin moving aircraft out of the city on the evening of September 23, with Cathay Pacific and its low-cost subsidiary HK Express expected to follow on the morning of September 24. The move would be intended to protect aircraft from potential damage caused by strong winds, heavy rain, and possible storm surge as Ragasa approaches.
Airport officials have warned that all flight operations may be suspended on September 24, with disruption expected to continue into September 25 as airlines reposition aircraft and restore normal schedules.
Rare Large-Scale Evacuation
Large-scale aircraft evacuations of this kind are rare in Hong Kong. During most typhoons, airlines keep aircraft secured at Chek Lap Kok. However, the latest forecasts for Ragasa - which include the risk of storm surge, severe flooding, and extreme winds - have prompted carriers to consider more drastic measures.
By relocating planes in advance, airlines could avoid costly damage, maintain fleet readiness, and enable a quicker recovery once conditions improve.
⚠️ Note: These evacuation plans have not been officially confirmed and remain under consideration. More details are expected once the storm’s path becomes clearer.
What Passengers Should Do
If you have travel plans in or out of Hong Kong between September 23–25, here are practical steps to protect your trip:
- Check flight status regularly via your airline’s app or website before heading to the airport.
- Use free rebooking options if your ticket is eligible, this will help you avoid being stranded.
- Plan for delays even after the storm; it may take several days for schedules to fully normalize.
- Stay informed by following updates from the Hong Kong Observatory, your airline, and airport advisories.
- Consider travel insurance if you may face non-refundable expenses like hotels or tours.
FAQs
Why are airlines evacuating aircraft from Hong Kong?
To protect fleets from high winds, heavy rain, and potential storm surge damage at Hong Kong International Airport.
When will flights be suspended?
Flights are expected to be halted on September 24, with knock-on effects into September 25.
Which airlines are affected?
Hong Kong Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and HK Express are all participating in the evacuation.
Are airlines offering free rebooking?
Yes. Several carriers have introduced free rebooking policies for passengers traveling between Tuesday and Thursday.
Has this happened before?
Yes, but rarely. The last large-scale evacuation was during super typhoon Songda in 2018.
What should passengers do now?
Check your airline’s website or app for real-time updates, confirm flight status before heading to the airport, and adjust travel plans as needed.
