Cathay Pacific evaluates new widebody orders from Airbus and Boeing

The airline's A350F order was finalized in December 2023 with an option to increase the order from 20 to potentially 26 cargo aircraft entering service by 2026. Cathay Pacific expects delivery of its first A350F in 2027.

In October 2024, Cathay Pacific introduced new Aria Suites on retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER aircraft as part of initiatives to enhance passenger experience post-pandemic recovery at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). Lavinia Lau emphasized that customer experience is central to their business class design.

“In the highly anticipated Aria Suite,” Lau noted that artistry and craftsmanship were integral “to create a holistic and immersive experience where comfort, privacy and a sense of personal space are completely reimagined.”

Lau also highlighted Cathay's significant investment commitment over HK$100 billion ($12.8 billion) into various areas reflecting confidence in Hong Kong’s aviation growth.

Despite ongoing challenges following city-wide protests and pandemic impacts on travel numbers compared to pre-pandemic levels —22.8 million passengers served by year-end—Cathay projects strong financial results driven by elevated cargo demand and lower fuel prices while planning full operational recovery by January 2025.