This airline is paving the way for the future
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Jan 24
- 5 min read
Updated: Feb 26
Cathay Pacific has unveiled a new business class experience and announced exciting new routes to Dallas, USA, Munich, Germany, and Brussels, Belgium. Additionally, the airline has placed significant orders for new aircraft, further enhancing its fleet to meet the growing demands of global travel. Cathay Pacific has rebounded strongly after the pandemic, returning to profitability in 2023 and seeing increased revenue in 2024 due to high passenger demand. Despite rising costs, the airline continues to invest in fleet modernization and service improvements. It has secured significant financial support and is focusing on managing debt. Looking ahead, Cathay Pacific’s outlook remains positive, with growth driven by new routes and aircraft, though challenges like fluctuating fuel prices and economic uncertainty remain.
Aria Suites for business
Cathay Pacific’s new 777 Aria Suites business class, now available on London flights, offers passengers an upgraded experience with sleek, modern features. Each suite is equipped with fully lie-flat beds and extra space, designed to enhance comfort and privacy during long-haul travel. The cabins offer direct aisle access, a significant improvement for passenger convenience. Expect luxurious details like personalized lighting and high-tech entertainment systems. This new offering aligns with Cathay’s commitment to providing world-class service.
Fleet expansion and modernization
Cathay Pacific Airways, established in 1946, is a Hong Kong-based international airline renowned for its extensive global network and commitment to premium service. As of January 2025, the airline operates a fleet of approximately 180 aircraft, including models such as the Airbus A321neo, A330-300, A350-900, A350-1000, Boeing 777-300, and 777-300ER.
In August 2024, Cathay Pacific placed an order for 30 Airbus A330neo widebody aircraft, with deliveries scheduled between 2028 and 2031. This acquisition is part of a broader strategy to modernize its fleet, which also includes orders for 22 Boeing 777-9s and 32 A320neo family aircraft.
Additionally, the airline is considering further widebody aircraft orders, evaluating both the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the Boeing 777X series to replace older models like the 777-300 and A330. A final decision on this order is expected in 2025.
New routes in 2025
As of early 2025, Cathay Pacific operates flights to over 80 destinations worldwide. These include major cities across Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania.
Cathay Pacific is expanding its global network with several new routes in 2025:
Dallas/Fort Worth, USA: Starting April 24, 2025, the airline will commence non-stop flights between Hong Kong and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, marking its sixth passenger destination in the United States.
Munich, Germany: Beginning June 16, 2025, Cathay Pacific will launch direct flights from Hong Kong to Munich, enhancing its European presence.
Brussels, Belgium: Effective August 3, 2025, the airline will introduce direct services between Hong Kong and Brussels, further expanding its European network.
Commitment to sustainability
Cathay Pacific is dedicated to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The airline is focusing on fleet modernization, operational efficiency, and the adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to meet this goal.
Recent developments
In January 2025, Cathay Pacific completed a two-year rebuilding journey, investing $13 billion over seven years to revitalize its fleet, cabins, and airport lounges. This investment includes the acquisition of 30 Airbus A330neo aircraft, with deliveries expected between 2028 and 2031.
«At Cathay Pacific, our aim is to provide our passengers with the best possible experience, whether they are flying for business or leisure. We constantly strive to innovate and enhance our service, making sure we stay ahead of the evolving needs of our customers.» Ronald Lam Cathay group chief executive officer, leader of the business group
Awards over the years
Cathay Pacific has received numerous awards over the years, recognizing its exceptional service, commitment to sustainability, and overall excellence in the aviation industry.
Skytrax World Airline Awards: Cathay Pacific has consistently been ranked among the top airlines globally. It was awarded World’s Best Airline multiple times, including in 2014 and 2015, and often ranks highly in various categories such as best business class and best airport lounges.
Business Traveller Awards: Cathay Pacific has won several Business Traveller Awards, particularly for its business class service, which is renowned for its luxury, comfort, and innovation, including the recent introduction of the 777 Aria Suites.
Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Awards: The airline has frequently been recognized as a top choice by travelers, securing spots in the Top 10 International Airlines based on customer reviews.
Asia's Leading Airline: At the World Travel Awards, Cathay Pacific has been named Asia's Leading Airline several times, thanks to its wide-reaching network and premium service offerings.
Sustainability recognition: Cathay Pacific has earned recognition for its commitment to sustainable aviation practices, particularly its efforts toward reducing carbon emissions and adopting sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Awards: The airline has been acknowledged for its dedication to corporate social responsibility and its efforts in humanitarian aid, environmental preservation, and community engagement.
Bonus to employees
Cathay Pacific has according to Dimsum Daily announced that it will reward its employees with bonuses following a remarkable financial recovery.
The airline faced severe losses during the pandemic but has since rebounded, thanks to strong demand in the travel sector. This bonus payout is seen as a recognition of the hard work and dedication of the airline's staff, who played a key role in its recovery. The airline’s financial strength has improved, with the company posting solid profits in recent months.
In an internal letter to staff, CEO Ronald Lam Siu stated that this enabled us to return to 100 percent of pre-pandemic flights this month and made it possible for us to commit more than HK$100 billion in investments into further elevating our customers’ experience in the future.
Lam emphasized the importance of collective efforts in achieving the airline's goals,
–This stage of our journey is like moving from a finalist to a medalist in a world championship competition. Every move counts, and all of your efforts matter to helping us achieve a historic third consecutive year of strong performance in 2025.
The final bonus amount will be announced alongside the 2024 annual report in mid-March.
