Super Typhoon Ragasa has triggered unprecedented travel disruption across Asia, with Qantas suspending all Hong Kong services as the region braces for the strongest storm of 2025.
The Australian carrier announced complete flight cancellations between Hong Kong and Australia from 8pm AEST on September 23 to 8am AEST on September 25. Hong Kong International Airport will remain closed for 36 hours during this period.
Super Typhoon Ragasa approaching Hong Kong on September 22, 2025
Record-Breaking Storm Forces Mass Flight Cancellations
Super Typhoon Ragasa has generated sustained winds of 267 kilometres per hour, equivalent to a Category 5 hurricane. The storm currently ranks as 2025’s most powerful weather system.
Qantas confirmed eight services would be affected during the closure period. The airline stated it would contact passengers directly using booking contact details to arrange alternative travel arrangements.
“The safety of our customers and people is our number one priority,” Qantas said in an official statement. Passengers can check real-time updates through the carrier’s Flight Status system.
Hong Kong Airport Implements Unprecedented Shutdown
Hong Kong International Airport Authority announced the 36-hour closure following emergency weather warnings. Airport operations will cease completely from Tuesday evening through Thursday morning.
Wing Yeung, the Airport Authority’s director of service delivery, confirmed “significant reduction of landing and departure” would begin from 6pm Tuesday. Most flight movements face cancellation on Wednesday.
The closure represents one of the longest airport shutdowns in Hong Kong’s recent history. Authorities coordinated with airlines, the Hong Kong Observatory, and Civil Aviation Department for the unprecedented response.
Regional Airlines Face Massive Disruption
Cathay Pacific Airways, Hong Kong’s flagship carrier, expects to cancel over 500 flights during the typhoon period. The airline suspended passenger operations from 6pm September 23 until daytime hours on September 25.
“We are fully committed to ensuring the safety of our colleagues and operations,” Cathay Pacific stated. The carrier promised sufficient resources for rapid resumption once weather conditions improve.
HK Express cancelled over 100 flights between Tuesday and Thursday. Hong Kong Airlines and Greater Bay Airlines also announced extensive cancellations and delays.
Super Typhoon Ragasa’s Destructive Path
The typhoon swept through northern Philippines on Monday, September 22, forcing thousands to evacuate. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr ordered full disaster response mobilisation across affected regions.
Ragasa maintains super typhoon classification with extensive circulation reaching across multiple countries. The storm threatens Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and southern China with destructive winds and flooding.
Weather forecasters predict the typhoon will pass closest to Hong Kong on Wednesday morning. Sea levels may reach heights similar to destructive storms Hato (2017) and Mangkhut (2018).
Super Typhoon Ragasa’s forecast track through the South China Sea
Economic Impact Spreads Across Tourism Sector
Hong Kong’s tourism industry faces significant disruption as the storm approaches. Long queues formed at supermarkets where essential items like milk sold out completely.
Vegetable prices tripled at fresh markets according to Reuters witnesses. The city’s reputation as a major tourism hub may suffer temporary damage depending on recovery speed.
Regional tourism boards monitor the situation closely as travellers reconsider Asia-Pacific destinations. The disruption affects business travellers, families, and leisure tourists across multiple countries.
Government Response and Safety Measures
Hong Kong Observatory issued T1 typhoon warnings with escalation to T3 expected Monday evening. T8 warnings will activate between 1pm and 4pm Tuesday as the storm approaches.
Schools closed across Hong Kong and Macau for Tuesday and Wednesday. Authorities warned residents about flooding, landslides, and dangerous storm surges exceeding three metres.
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs updated travel advisories for Hong Kong. Smartraveller issued warnings about the typhoon’s forecast path near the territory.
Recovery Timeline and Travel Advice
Airport authorities plan gradual restoration once weather conditions improve. Airlines prepare for rapid operational resumption following the typhoon’s passage.
Passengers should monitor flight status updates and maintain contact with airlines for rebooking assistance. Travel insurance coverage may apply for weather-related cancellations.
The Hong Kong Observatory will provide continuous updates as the situation develops. Recovery efforts will begin immediately after the storm passes the region.
Final Thoughts
The typhoon serves as a stark reminder of extreme weather’s growing impact on international travel. Climate change continues making storms more unpredictable and destructive, affecting millions of travellers annually.
As Super Typhoon Ragasa approaches its closest point to Hong Kong, authorities emphasise public safety over economic considerations. The coordinated response demonstrates regional preparedness for extreme weather events in an increasingly volatile climate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long will Qantas flight cancellations last?
A: Qantas flights to Hong Kong are suspended from 8pm AEST September 23 to 8am AEST September 25, covering the airport’s 36-hour closure period.
Q: Will passengers receive compensation for cancelled flights?
A: Airlines typically provide rebooking assistance for weather-related cancellations. Passengers should check individual airline policies and travel insurance coverage.
Q: Is this the strongest typhoon to hit Hong Kong recently?
A: Super Typhoon Ragasa ranks as 2025’s most powerful storm globally. It may become the strongest Hong Kong has experienced since Mangkhut in 2018.
Q: When will normal flight operations resume?
A: Hong Kong International Airport plans to reopen operations gradually from Thursday morning, September 25, pending weather improvements.
