Greater Bay Airlines (GBA) recently announced that it secured an Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) from the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department (HKCAD) — the first essential step in qualifying the carrier to fly for the purpose of public transport when complying with the Air Transport (Licensing of Services) Regulations.

In a statement, GBA noted that securing the AOC meant that it has all the professional capabilities, complies to all safety regulations needed for aircraft operations and has proven full completion of stringent inspections by the HKCAD.

Following this, the new airline said it will continue to work closely with the Air Transport Licensing Authority (ATLA) on license approval and will prepare for the formal launch of the public transport after.

"Today's announcement is a message of positivity that reflects the mission of GBA. Although it is very challenging in setting up and launching a new airline during the pandemic, obtaining the AOC during this time reflects our commitment to the aviation development of Hong Kong and the support of CE's 2021 Policy Address as well as the readiness to launch our operations," said Algernon Yau, GBA CEO.

The new carrier added that it was established in response to the 14th Five-Year Plan for national strategy to develop the Greater Bay Area in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau, with the integration of Hong Kong into the overall development of the country.

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carry Lam's 2021 Policy Address noted that the full completion of the Third Runway System at the Hong Kong International Airport — scheduled for 2024 — will enable a "city airport" to transform into an "Airport City" further strengthening Hong Kong's position as an international aviation hub.

Subject to regulatory approval, GBA has applied for air transport license for 104 destinations across the region including Chinese Mainland, North Asia and Southeast Asia. It said it aims to operate to Singapore, Bangkok and Phuket subject to regulatory approval and the pandemic situation.

Planned seven aircrafts by 2026

GBA has so far leased three Boeing 737-800 aircrafts which it plans to bring into operation. It said subject to its business expansion plan, the carrier is targeting to have seven aircrafts by end 2022.

"Our current fleet expansion is to have more than 30 aircrafts by 2026 subject to market environment and business recovery under the pandemic situation," it added.