The Cathay Group (Cathay) has committed more than HK$100 billion in investments over the next seven years as part of its bold strategy to further elevate its customer experience, and strengthen Hong Kong’s international aviation hub status riding on the Three-Runway System. This encompasses major investments in its fleet, cabin products, lounges, and digital and sustainability leadership as it sets its sights on growing for its customers, its people and its home, Hong Kong.
A key element of this strategy is the purchase of 30 Airbus A330-900 widebody aircraft, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2028. This latest order adds to Cathay Pacific’s already substantial pipeline of new-generation aircraft, which now exceeds 100 units.
Cathay Pacific, the premium airline within the Group, is also delighting customers with new cabin products launching in each of the coming three years. This begins with the airline’s all-new Aria Suite, Premium Economy and refreshed Economy coming to its redesigned Boeing 777-300ER aircraft later this year. A world-leading First class experience onboard its 777-9s will launch in 2025, followed by a brand new cabin and flat-bed Business class product on its existing A330 aircraft in 2026.
In addition to new cabin products, complimentary Wi-Fi will be progressively offered to Business class customers and Diamond members in the coming months. This will augment the airline’s ongoing investments in dining and inflight entertainment to make the customer experience truly exceptional.
Despite these forward-looking investments, Cathay Pacific reported a dip in its first-half 2024 profits. The airline’s net income dropped 15.3 percent year over year to HK$3.6 billion, largely attributed to the normalization of ticket prices. However, revenue rose by 13.8 percent to HK$49.6 billion, driven by a 36.4 percent increase in passenger numbers. The rise in costs outpaced revenue growth, contributing to the decline in profits.
Cathay Pacific’s aggressive investment in new aircraft and cabin products marks a significant step in its post-pandemic recovery, positioning the airline for future growth as it continues to strengthen its presence as a leading carrier in the Asia-Pacific region.
