Airline
Hapag-Lloyd Express (U9)
Hapag-Lloyd Express (HLX) was a prominent German low-cost airline recognized for its iconic yellow 'flying taxi' aircraft. Operating from key hubs like Cologne/Bonn and Hanover, HLX provided affordable, point-to-point European flights before merging to form TUIfly.
Why travelers choose Hapag-Lloyd Express
- •Iconic 'New York taxi' yellow and black checkered livery
- •Major hubs operating out of Cologne/Bonn, Hanover, and Stuttgart
- •Extensive low-cost European network spanning over 35 destinations
- •Successfully merged with Hapagfly in 2007 to establish TUIfly
Fare families
HLX Basic
A no-frills fare designed for the ultimate budget-conscious traveler looking for the lowest possible price.
- •1 carry-on bag (max 5kg)
- •Random seat assignment
- •Snacks and beverages available for purchase
- •Ticket changes permitted for a fee
HLX Standard
The ideal choice for holidaymakers needing a bit more luggage capacity and travel convenience.
- •1 carry-on bag (max 5kg)
- •1 checked bag (up to 20kg)
- •Standard seat selection
- •Reduced fees for flight changes
HLX Flex
Complete flexibility tailored for business travelers and those with dynamic, shifting itineraries.
- •1 carry-on bag (max 5kg)
- •1 checked bag (up to 20kg)
- •Preferred seat selection with extra legroom
- •Complimentary flight date and time changes
- •Priority boarding privileges
Key policies
Baggage allowance
HLX permitted one carry-on bag weighing up to 5kg free of charge. Checked baggage up to 20kg could be added to bookings for an additional fee, reflecting the standard low-cost carrier model of its era.
Change policy
Flight dates, times, and passenger names could be changed up to 2 hours before departure, subject to a fixed modification fee plus any applicable difference in fare.
Check-in
Passengers were encouraged to use early online check-in, which was available from 30 hours up to 2 hours before departure. Airport check-in desks typically closed 45 minutes prior to the scheduled flight time.
Colombo (CMB) network
Hapag-Lloyd Express operating flights touching CMB
Sample operating pattern; confirm exact days and times during booking.
From Colombo (CMB)
CMB → DXB
Flight U9 203 • Daily
CMB → SIN
Flight U9 468 • Daily
CMB → LHR
Flight U9 503 • Mon / Wed / Fri
To Colombo (CMB)
DXB → CMB
Flight U9 204 • Daily
SIN → CMB
Flight U9 469 • Daily
LHR → CMB
Flight U9 504 • Tue / Thu / Sat