HONG KONG- Cathay Pacific (CX) announces a significant fleet expansion with the purchase of 30 Airbus A330-900 wide-body aircraft. The Hong Kong-based airline secures options for an additional 30 planes, demonstrating a strong commitment to future growth.
The basic price for the initial 30 aircraft stands at approximately $11 billion, though Cathay confirms receiving substantial price concessions from Airbus.
Cathay Pacific Airbus A330 Order
The airline expects deliveries to conclude by the end of 2031, indicating a long-term strategic plan for fleet renewal and expansion, Reuters reported.
This acquisition marks a major investment in Cathay Pacific’s future operational capabilities and market positioning.
Cathay Pacific first hinted at the possibility of a mid-sized wide-body purchase in late 2022, indicating a carefully considered decision-making process.
HK$100 Billion Investment in Hong Kong
Cathay Group is making a significant investment in its future, committing over HK$100 billion over the next seven years to enhance its customer experience and bolster Hong Kong’s position as an international aviation hub. This investment aligns with the development of the Three-Runway System at Hong Kong International Airport.
The group’s fleet expansion plan is ambitious, with more than 100 new-generation aircraft in the delivery pipeline and options for over 80 additional aircraft. This diverse order includes narrowbody, regional widebody, long-haul widebody, and large freighter aircraft, aiming to modernize and expand Cathay’s fleet significantly.
These new aircraft will not only elevate the airline’s capabilities but also contribute to its environmental goals. The enhanced fuel efficiency of these modern planes will play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions, supporting Cathay’s commitment to achieve carbon net zero by 2050.
Cathay Pacific, the group’s premium airline, is focusing on enhancing its in-flight experience. The airline will introduce new cabin products over the next three years, starting with the Aria Suite, an upgraded Premium Economy and a refreshed Economy class on redesigned Boeing 777-300ER aircraft later this year.
In 2025, a new First class experience will debut on the 777-9 aircraft, followed by a brand new cabin and flat-bed Business class on existing A330 aircraft in 2026.
To further improve the in-flight experience, Cathay Pacific will begin offering complimentary Wi-Fi to business-class customers and Diamond members in the coming months. This addition complements ongoing investments in dining and inflight entertainment.
On the ground, Cathay Pacific is investing in its lounge network. The airline plans to launch newly designed flagship lounges in Hong Kong and Beijing, as well as its first dedicated lounge in New York, over the next three years.
Largest A330-300 Operator
Hong Kong-based carrier operates a fleet of 177 aircraft as of August 2024. The fleet includes all Airbus narrowbody jets and a mix of Airbus and Boeing Wide-body aircraft.
Cathay is actually the largest operator of A330-300 aircraft in the world. It has a fleet of 43 A330-300 with an average of 16 years and in multiple seating configurations. In total, it has operated 60 A330-300, 17 of which are retired. While Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines (DL) is the largest A330 family operator.
Cathay is planning to replenish its fleet with A330-900 as it will retire more A330-300 in the coming years. Furthermore, Cathay has placed an order for Boeing 777-9 to operate ultra-long-haul routes.
Cathay Pacific Airlines is also the launch customer and largest operator of Boeing 777-300 aircraft.
With this new purchase, Cathay will become the lead operator of A330neo aircraft. Asian and European carriers such as Flynas (XY) and Virgin Atlantic (VS) are placing orders for A330neo as Airbus gives them huge concessions to keep its plant running. This is a win-win situation for both airlines and manufacturers.
What are your thoughts on the Cathay Pacific Airbus Order? Have you flown on Airbus A330? Let us know in the comments.
Cathay Pacific Fleet FAQs
Cathay Pacific Airways operates a fleet of 177 Aircraft as of August 2024.
Yes, Cathay Pacific has placed an order for 21 Boeing 777X (777-9) aircraft, which it expects to receive from 2026.
No, Cathay Pacific Operates a wide range of aircraft in its fleet including Airbus A321, A330, A350, Boeing 747, and 777.
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