Jetstar Hong Kong today announced the appointment of Mr Edward Lau as the airline’s Chief Executive Officer.

Mr Lau will lead the Jetstar Hong Kong team with 35 years’ experience in transport, logistics, freight and aviation.

Jetstar Hong Kong Chairman Tang Bing said the airline was pleased to welcome an executive of Mr Lau’s calibre onboard.

“Edward has extensive experience managing high performing businesses in Hong Kong and he understands the Hong Kong market and the key drivers for success,” Mr Tang said.

“Throughout his career Edward has demonstrated a passion for innovation, building great teams and establishing sustainable businesses.”

Mr Lau, who will become CEO on 18 February, said he was honoured to lead the Jetstar Hong Kong team as it prepares for a mid-2013 launch, subject to regulatory approval.

“Jetstar Hong Kong is set to open up travel opportunities to those who may not have been able to afford to fly in the past,” Mr Lau said.

“Our airfares will be on average 50 per cent lower than those currently offered by full services carriers.

“This is an exciting time to be a part of local business that will offer more choice to Hong Kong travellers and will

stimulate growth in the airline and tourism sectors.”

Mr Lau was previously employed with TNT for more than 10 years holding senior positions across the company, most recently Managing Director Hong Kong. He has also worked for Hay Group, Rosenbluth International and was part of the team that established FedEx in Asia.

His appointment follows the recent announcement of Howard Cheung as the new Chief Financial Officer and the appointment of Ronnie Choi Mow Sang, former President of Hong Kong Express, to the Jetstar Hong Kong board as an Independent Non-Executive Director.

Jetstar Hong Kong will be Hong Kong’s only locally based low fares airline and is expected to contribute over HK$8 billion to the economy through local employment, supplier contracts and tourism spend by the time the airline grows to 18 aircraft in 2015.