2nd September 2026 – (Hong Kong) A passenger has raised concerns about HK Express’ on‑board seating policy after sharing photos that appear to show signs advertising “Instant Seat Change Available (Fee Applies)” alongside largely empty rows. The traveller said initial frustration had given way to amusement at what was described as penny‑pinching, alleging that despite the cabin being half empty, customers were clustered into full rows unless they paid to move. The passenger added they were unaware of other airlines operating a similar approach and expressed a willingness to go on record to recount the experience.
The images, taken inside an HK Express aircraft cabin, show grey slimline seats with placards indicating that an immediate seat change could be purchased from cabin crew. While low‑cost carriers commonly charge for advance seat selection, the traveller questioned the practice of keeping free seats unused during the flight without levying a fee to switch, calling it an unnecessary squeeze on comfort.
