The Cathay Pacific Group has well and truly drawn the proverbThe Cathay Pacific Group, including Cathay Pacific and HK Express, has made a remarkable recovery, turning a new page in its history as it begins 2025 with confidence and optimism.
In December 2024, the airline group carried more than 100,000 passengers on eight separate days during the holiday travel rush, marking a significant milestone in its rebuilding journey.
Record Passenger Numbers Mark a Milestone
On December 15, 2024, the Cathay Pacific Group reached its highest single-day passenger count since the onset of the pandemic, handling 100,856 travelers. This achievement was not isolated, as the airline group consistently surpassed 100,000 passengers on seven additional days during the year-end peak travel period.
Having endured some of the most challenging circumstances among global airlines—pandemic disruptions, strict lockdowns in China and Northeast Asia, and political unrest in Hong Kong—the Cathay Pacific Group has emerged resilient.
Now operating at 100% of its pre-pandemic flight levels, the group plans to connect travelers to over 100 destinations worldwide by the end of 2025.
Cathay’s CEO Reflects on 2024 Success
Ronald Lam, Chief Executive Officer of the Cathay Pacific Group, expressed satisfaction at concluding 2024 with strong momentum.
“We are thrilled to end the year on a high note,” he said. Lam credited the airline’s progress to its dedicated team and emphasized the focus on expanding flights and destinations, calling it the start of a “new chapter” for Cathay.
Lam also praised the hard work of the airline’s frontline staff during the holiday season, acknowledging their efforts to ensure seamless travel experiences for customers reuniting with loved ones or exploring new destinations.
A Promising 2025 for Cathay Pacific
Cathay Pacific has big plans for 2025, with a strong emphasis on expanding its network and services. After a five-year break, the airline resumed seasonal flights to Cairns, Australia, in December 2024, reconnecting travelers with the iconic Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.
These flights, operating three times a week until March 29, 2025, use Airbus A330 aircraft and offer nearly 27,000 seats during the peak holiday season.
Cathay Pacific is also operating flights to Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth using its fleet of widebody aircraft, which includes Airbus A330s, A350s, and Boeing 777s. Its widebody fleet comprises:
- 43 Airbus A330s
- 30 Airbus A350-900s
- 18 Airbus A350-1000s
- 17 Boeing 777-300s
- 36 Boeing 777-300ERs
The airline is set to launch new long-haul routes to Hyderabad (India), Dallas (United States), Munich (Germany), and Brussels (Belgium) in 2025, further solidifying its global presence.
HK Express Expands Regional Reach
Cathay Pacific’s low-cost subsidiary, HK Express, is also growing its network. In 2024, it added Shizuoka (Japan) to its destinations and will soon launch a new route to Sendai (Japan) in January 2025. As a regional carrier, HK Express focuses on single-aisle Airbus aircraft, with its fleet consisting of:
- 6 A320-200s
- 10 A320neos
- 13 A321-200s
- 12 A321neos
The airline has 21 additional aircraft on order, including eight A320neos and 13 A321neos, positioning itself for further expansion in the region.
Boosting Hong Kong’s Status as an Aviation Hub
The Cathay Pacific Group’s resurgence is a boon for Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), which has recently commissioned its Three-Runway System to reclaim its status as Asia’s leading aviation hub. Cathay Pacific, as the city’s flagship airline, remains committed to enhancing Hong Kong’s global connectivity by linking the Chinese Mainland, Asia, and the world.
The Cathay Pacific Group has emerged stronger after years of challenges, achieving a full recovery of its pre-pandemic operations.
With a growing network, an expanding fleet, and renewed confidence, Cathay Pacific and HK Express are poised to shape the future of aviation in Asia and beyond. This revival not only strengthens the group but also reinforces Hong Kong’s position as a premier international travel hub.
FAQ:
1. What is the Cathay Pacific Group?
The Cathay Pacific Group comprises two airlines: Cathay Pacific and HK Express. Cathay Pacific is a full-service international airline, while HK Express is a regional low-cost carrier.
2. How did the Cathay Pacific Group perform during the 2024 holiday season?
The Cathay Pacific Group carried over 100,000 passengers on eight days during December 2024, including a record 100,856 passengers on December 15, marking its strongest recovery milestone since the pandemic began.
3. Has the Cathay Pacific Group returned to pre-pandemic flight levels?
Yes, the group has restored 100% of its pre-pandemic flights and plans to operate services to over 100 destinations worldwide by the end of 2025.
4. What are Cathay Pacific’s plans for 2025?
In 2025, Cathay Pacific will expand its network by launching new long-haul routes to Hyderabad (India), Dallas (USA), Munich (Germany), and Brussels (Belgium). The airline also resumed seasonal flights to Cairns, Australia, in December 2024.