Cleared for take-off: Bahrain's Minster for Transportation Shaik Ali Bin Khalifa Al Khalifa and Secretary for Economic Development & Labour Stephen Ip oversee the signing of Hong Kong and Bahrain's memorandum of understanding on air services.

Hong Kong and Bahrain have signed an aviation deal allowing unlimited passenger and cargo capacity, greater fifth freedom rights and code-share arrangements.

The memorandum of understanding signing was overseen today by Secretary for Economic Development & Labour Stephen Ip and Bahrain's Minister for Transportation Shaik Ali Bin Khalifa Al Khalifa.

"I am glad that what we have signed will lead to a very liberal air services regime between Hong Kong and Bahrain. I am sure this will lead to closer ties," Mr Ip said.

"This is another step forward in the implementation of our policy of progressive liberalisation of air services. I encourage the airlines of Hong Kong and Bahrain to take advantage of the very liberal air services regime to increase services. I am sure that through the efforts of the Government and the airlines, Hong Kong's aviation network will continue to expand, thus further strengthening our position as an international aviation hub."

Cathay Pacific and Gulf Air operate 11 weekly passenger services between Hong Kong and Bahrain.