Cathay Pacific unveils new 'Aria Suite' business-class seat

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Cathay Pacific unveils new 'Aria Suite' business-class seat

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Augusta Stone Associate credit cards writer | The Points Guy

By Sky Industry News

Oct 16, 2024

Cathay Pacific has introduced its latest business-class seat, the "Aria Suite," at an event held at Hong Kong International Airport. The airline had previously announced plans for this new suite in March 2024 and now plans to implement them on its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft later this year.

According to Nicky Kelvin from The Points Guy, the Aria Suite represents a significant evolution rather than a complete overhaul of Cathay's current business class. The suites maintain a reverse herringbone-style 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring direct aisle access for each seat. This setup is designed to cater to both solo travelers and those traveling with companions.

Privacy is a key feature of the Aria Suites, with high seatback shells, adjustable dividers between center seats, and closing doors shielding passengers from the aisle. Kelvin notes that "doors are an increasingly popular feature of next-generation business-class seats," marking their debut in Cathay Pacific's offerings.

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The interior of the Aria Suites features neutral tones such as taupe, cream, sand, and brown instead of Cathay's signature green. Each suite includes ample surface and storage areas, incorporating woodgrain and marbleized armrests with hidden cubbies for valuables.

Technological advancements include 24-inch 4K high-definition entertainment screens with Bluetooth audio connectivity. Passengers can also select from various "activity modes" like "movie," "work," or "relax," which adjust seat position and lighting accordingly.

Power options include universal plugs, USB-A and USB-C ports, wireless charging pads, and free Wi-Fi access. The tray table design allows positioning at any height within its range.

The introduction of these suites will see changes in cabin configuration on reconfigured planes. Boeing 777-300ERs will feature increased seating in business class (45 seats) and premium economy (48 seats), but reduced economy seating (268 seats).

Cathay Pacific will retrofit one plane per month until the end of 2027 when all its Boeing 777-300ERs are expected to have Aria Suites installed. While first class is being removed from these jets, it will be introduced on the new Boeing 777-9s set for delivery starting in 2026.

The first flight featuring Aria Suites will operate daily between Hong Kong and Beijing Capital International Airport from October 18 to October 31. Future routes are yet to be confirmed as more retrofitted jets become available.

For those looking to book these new suites using miles or points, Cathay Pacific's Asia Miles program offers redemption opportunities through partners like American Express Membership Rewards and Citi ThankYou Rewards.