HONG KONG- Cathay Pacific (CX) is expanding its aircraft fleet with an additional order for 11 Airbus A330-900 widebody aircraft, valued at approximately US$5.1 billion. Announced on November 11, 2026, the purchase will strengthen the airline’s regional operations, increase passenger and cargo capacity, and support its long-term fleet modernisation strategy.
The latest agreement also includes three additional Airbus A321neo aircraft for its low-cost subsidiary, HK Express (UO). This brings the Cathay Group’s latest commitment to 14 additional Airbus aircraft, covering both regional widebody operations and short-haul services across its network.
Cathay Orders A330-900s
The 11 Airbus A330-900 aircraft will build on Cathay Pacific’s existing commitment to the A330neo programme. The airline ordered 30 A330-900s in August 2024, with the latest purchase bringing its total firm orders for the type to 41 aircraft.
According to the company’s stock exchange filing, the 11 aircraft have a combined basic purchase price of approximately US$5.114 billion (HK$39.889 billion).
However, Airbus has granted Cathay significant price concessions following negotiations, meaning the actual amount payable will be lower than the disclosed basic price.
The new aircraft are scheduled for delivery between 2031 and 2035. Cathay intends to progressively replace its existing medium-sized widebody fleet with the A330-900, which will initially operate primarily on regional routes across Asia, ET flagged.
The aircraft will also provide operational flexibility for longer-haul services as the airline develops its network. Their improved fuel efficiency is expected to help reduce operating costs while providing additional capacity for passengers and cargo.
HK Express Gets A321neo
Alongside the widebody purchase, Cathay has exercised its purchase rights for three more Airbus A321neo aircraft for HK Express. The additional jets will complement the 32 A321neo and A320neo aircraft that the group ordered in 2023.
The A321neo aircraft will support HK Express’s expansion across destinations in mainland China and other short-haul markets.
The aircraft’s additional capacity will help the low-cost carrier serve routes where demand for regional travel continues to support its network development.
The two aircraft types will serve different roles within the group. While the A330-900 will strengthen Cathay Pacific’s regional widebody operations, the A321neo will provide additional capacity for HK Express’s shorter routes.
Cathay’s Fleet Expansion
The latest Airbus purchases form part of a broader investment programme aimed at strengthening the Cathay Group’s position in the international aviation market.
Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam said the new aircraft would improve the group’s fleet, enhance connectivity through Hong Kong and contribute to its long-term growth plans.
Lam also indicated that the latest commitments bring the group’s total expected aircraft deliveries from 2026 to 120. Cathay has set a longer-term target of receiving 150 new aircraft, reflecting its intention to expand capacity and modernise its operations over the coming years.
The group is also working towards developing a network serving 150 destinations over the next decade, subject to favourable market conditions.
Its aircraft investments are intended to support this expansion while strengthening Hong Kong’s role as a major international aviation hub.
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