The Low Cost Carrier massacre continues, with the newest victim being one of the first budget long-haul, international airlines. Oasis Hong Kong was founded in February of 2005 with the idea that competitive fares on the Hong Kong – Vancouver and Hong Kong – London routes would make a killing for the company. I remember the glee of shopping around for super cheap 150£ budget tickets between London and Hong Kong a few years back, only to take the shorter route on Cathay over the Pacific. I was never able to find a good time to make it out to London or Vancouver to hop on an Oasis flight — I guess I never will.
The departure of Oasis Hong Kong is our first strong sign that domestic airlines’ oil woes are being felt felt around the globe. While it is true that world markets are all generally in decline, many people don’t consider how many airlines are really out there and how many are struggling in the modern economy.
Those who are now stranded by Oasis are encouraged to call a hotline set up by Cathay Pacific to gobble up any stray passengers, while others who have already booked and paid are possibly eligible for a refund. Several stipulations do apply to earning that cash, however, so you’ll have to read the website carefully to make plans.
Farewell Oasis Hong Kong. I wish that we had met.