Cathay Pacific Airways is evaluating another round of widebody aircraft orders, with the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the Boeing 777X as potential additions to its fleet. This decision is part of the airline’s ongoing commitment to fleet modernization and environmental goals. According to Bloomberg, the Hong Kong-based airline has initiated discussions with Boeing to outline specific numbers and timelines for a new fleet order.
This major widebody fleet update will help Cathay Pacific replace its aging Boeing 777-300 and -300ER models, along with its current Airbus A330 aircraft. The airline plans to announce a final decision on the order structure in 2025.
Cathay Pacific’s Chief Operations and Service Delivery Officer, Alex McGowan, detailed the current evaluation of the 787 Dreamliner family, the 777X series, and specifically, the 777-9 variant. McGowan also mentioned that the airline is open to considering Airbus options, including potential orders for the A330neo and the A350-900 and A350-1000 models.
Cathay Pacific’s upcoming widebody order will complete a recent series of aircraft acquisitions. In August 2024, Cathay ordered 30 Airbus A330neo aircraft, which included options for an additional 30, aimed at replacing older A330-300s. This followed an October 2023 order for 32 A320neo family aircraft, along with six A350 freighters for its cargo division. In addition, Cathay has an outstanding order of 22 Boeing 777-9s.
Cathay Pacific operates a diverse fleet, including both Airbus and Boeing models, to support its hub-and-spoke operations based at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). The current fleet includes 180 aircraft, with 15 A321neos, 43 A330-300s, 30 A350-900s, 18 A350-1000s, 17 Boeing 777-300s, and 36 777-300ERs, along with several cargo-dedicated planes.
Expansion of Cabin Products and Sustainability Goals
In line with its fleet upgrade, Cathay Pacific has introduced new amenities for its long-haul travelers. The airline recently unveiled its Aria Suite business class product, alongside a new premium economy and economy class design on a refurbished Boeing 777-300ER. The cabin enhancements are part of an extensive investment program focused on modernizing the fleet, improving cabin experiences, and enhancing lounges, digital services, and sustainability initiatives.
Sustainability remains a key objective for Cathay Pacific as it works toward its 2050 net-zero carbon emissions goal. The airline has implemented several measures, including adopting Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and exploring emerging technologies, operational efficiency, and high-quality carbon offset programs. Cathay also stands as one of the first airlines globally to commit to achieving 10% SAF use by 2030. The airline has successfully integrated SAF into operations at Hong Kong International Airport and various other international locations.
With these fleet updates, Cathay Pacific is focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and meeting the latest in environmental standards, while offering improved services to passengers. This dual focus reflects Cathay’s dedication to both modernizing its fleet and contributing to sustainable aviation growth.
