Dragonair, a Hong Kong-based airline, has announced that it is offering special introductory fares to celebrate the launch of its new four times weekly Yangon-Hong Kong service commencing on January 9, 2013.

“As the largest city and economic centre of the country, Yangon plays an important role in Myanmar’s economy, and we see great potential for growth here. This is why we are helping connect it to the region and to the world” said the Dragonair Burma Country Manager.

Currently, passengers from Hong Kong have to spend seven hours or more to reach Rangoon [Yangon] via Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Kunming or Singapore. The new direct flight will cut the flight time considerably.

Burma’s authorities have said they plan to build a new airport near Yangon, expected to open in 2016, due to the recent boom in visitors.