Cathay Pacific increases US focus with more flights and premium upgrades

Cathay Pacific has not yet resumed service to IAD or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), both of which were discontinued during the pandemic. By the end of 2025, Cathay and its budget subsidiary HK Express are projected to serve 105 destinations—11 fewer than six years ago. The airline will offer nearly 14% fewer seats on U.S. routes this year compared with 2019.

However, Cathay plans to resume flights to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) next March with five weekly departures.

The airline’s recent focus has shifted toward strengthening connections at major Oneworld alliance partner hubs in the U.S., such as DFW and SEA—key airports for American Airlines and Alaska Airlines respectively. In addition to these two cities, Cathay serves Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), and San Francisco International Airport (SFO). American Airlines maintains bases at JFK, ORD and LAX; Alaska Airlines has bases at LAX and SFO.

Ronald Lam, CEO of Cathay Pacific, stated: "By launching these two destinations, it actually exponentially expands our presence in the Americas." He also noted that many travelers on the new HKG-DFW route connect with American flights throughout Central and South America.

In addition to route adjustments, Cathay is investing in premium products for U.S.-bound passengers. Earlier this year it introduced new Aria business-class suites—currently available only on flights between HKG and Vancouver but planned for other North American routes soon. A new first-class product will debut when Boeing 777-9 aircraft enter long-haul service around 2027.

Cathay also plans to open its first lounge at JFK by late Q1 2026. While details remain limited about amenities for first- and business-class travelers there, Lau confirmed: "I can guarantee you the signatures — the noodles — they will definitely be there," referencing popular noodle bars found in Hong Kong lounges. When asked about dim sum offerings she replied: "Yes, very likely."

The initial phase of Terminal 6 at JFK—which will house several international airlines including All Nippon Airways, Lufthansa and Swiss—is scheduled for completion early next year.

"Our aspiration is to be the best premium airline in the world," Lam said during his remarks.