Hong Kong’s Cathay Pacific to buy more than 100 aircraft as part of HK$100 billion investment

Cathay group chairman Patrick Healy said the company was firmly turning the page and embarking on a new bold strategy for the future in terms of both scope and quality, seeking to strengthen Hong Kong’s status as an international aviation hub riding on a three-runway system.

“As the local airline, we are a key contributor to the future success of the international aviation hub. Our substantial investments further demonstrate our unwavering commitment to fostering Hong Kong’s ongoing economic development,” he said.

“With over HK$100 billion being invested in our fleet, cabin products, airport lounges and more, we are firmly turning the page and embarking on a bold new strategy for the future, not just in scope but also in quality.

“Cathay is entering an exciting new era underpinned by our determination to become one of the world’s greatest service brands.”

The investment includes purchasing 30 Airbus A330-900 aircraft, with the right to acquire 30 more in the future, expected to be delivered from 2028 to join the Cathay fleet principally serving destinations in Asia.

Cathay said it had more than 100 new-generation aircraft in its delivery pipeline, with the right to acquire over 80 more in the future.

The current order book includes 21 Boeing 777-9 widebody passenger aircraft scheduled to be delivered next year and 49 Airbus A320neo and A321neo expected to be delivered by 2029.

Healy said it would play a key role in helping Cathay reduce carbon emissions to net zero by 2025.

Newly designed lounges will be unveiled in Hong Kong, Beijing and, for the first time, in New York, over the next three years.

The carrier’s passenger capacity has been restored to 80 per cent of pre-pandemic levels.