Cathay’s focus on customer service excellence continues to earn accolades, including being ranked among the top five airlines globally and having its Economy class named the World’s Best
Cathay Group is making a significant commitment to Hong Kong’s future as a premier international aviation hub, with an investment exceeding HK$100 billion over the next seven years. This ambitious plan aligns with the launch of the Three-Runway System at Hong Kong International Airport, which promises to enhance the city’s global connectivity.
Chairman Patrick Healy emphasized that this investment is not just about expansion but about quality and innovation. Cathay’s focus includes enhancing its fleet, cabin products, airport lounges, and leadership in digital and sustainability initiatives. “As Hong Kong’s home airline, we play a pivotal role in the city’s future as an aviation hub. This substantial investment underscores our unwavering commitment to Hong Kong’s economic development,” Healy said.
One of the most notable elements of this investment is the purchase of 30 Airbus A330-900 aircraft, with an option for an additional 30 in the future. These modern aircraft, expected to be delivered starting in 2028, will primarily serve destinations across Asia. Cathay’s fleet modernization efforts also include over 100 new-generation aircraft currently in its delivery pipeline, with further options to acquire more than 80 additional aircraft, spanning narrowbody, regional widebody, long-haul widebody, and large freighter aircraft.
With a clear vision for the future, Cathay is poised to bring pride to its employees, customers, shareholders, and the broader Hong Kong community
These investments will not only expand and modernize Cathay’s fleet but also support the airline’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, thanks to the enhanced fuel efficiency of the new aircraft.
Cathay Pacific, the flagship airline of the group, is set to introduce a series of new cabin products over the next three years, starting with the launch of the Aria Suite, Premium Economy, and revamped Economy class on its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. A new First class offering will debut on the Boeing 777-9 in 2025, followed by a redesigned Business class on its Airbus A330 aircraft in 2026. Additionally, complimentary Wi-Fi will soon be available to Business class passengers and Diamond members, enhancing the inflight experience.
On the ground, Cathay Pacific will unveil new flagship lounges in Hong Kong, Beijing, and, for the first time, in New York over the next three years.
Cathay’s commitment to rebuilding has also shown promising results, with the company reporting an attributable profit of HK$3.6 billion in the first half of 2024, despite challenges such as the normalization of ticket prices. Cathay has fully repaid the HK$19.5 billion preference shares investment and returned a total of HK$2.44 billion in dividends to the Hong Kong SAR Government.
As Cathay continues to recover from the impacts of the pandemic, it is on track to restore 100% of its pre-pandemic flight schedule by early 2025. The group is also expanding its workforce by 5,000 people this year, bringing the total headcount to 29,000.
Cathay Group remains dedicated to reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a leading international aviation hub. With two airlines under its umbrella, Cathay Pacific and HK Express, the group currently serves over 80 global destinations, with plans to increase this to 100 by 2025. This year alone, Cathay has launched services to 10 new destinations, with more to follow.
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