Cathay Pacific Faces Uncertainty Over Boeing 777X Deliveries

Cathay Pacific remains uncertain about the timeline for its Boeing 777X deliveries, according to Alex McGowan, the airline group’s chief operating officer. During a media briefing in Hong Kong on March 12, 2025, he acknowledged the ongoing discussions with Boeing but emphasized the lack of clarity regarding the aircraft’s arrival. Cathay Pacific currently has 21 Boeing 777-9 aircraft on order.

“We’re watching developments with interest,” McGowan said. “We’re staying very close to Boeing. The current lack of visibility is a problem, and we are anticipating our first delivery in 2027.”

Boeing is still waiting for certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its 777X program, a delay that has impacted the delivery timeline for airlines, including Cathay Pacific. Initially, the airline anticipated receiving its first 777-9 aircraft before 2027. However, with ongoing regulatory approvals still pending, Cathay Pacific has now adjusted its expected timeline for the aircraft’s first delivery to 2027.

Previously, the airline had anticipated welcoming its first two Boeing 777-9 aircraft by 2025. However, production challenges and certification delays have resulted in postponements, affecting airline fleet planning.

Despite these challenges, Cathay Pacific is moving forward with its fleet expansion. In late 2024, CEO Ronald Lam, alongside a team of senior managers from the Cathay Group, visited the headquarters of Chinese aircraft manufacturer COMAC.

Expansion Plans and Future Fleet Strategy

The visit to COMAC was aimed at assessing potential aircraft options for Cathay Pacific’s growing fleet. “We are very pleased to share our experience and contribute to COMAC’s development,” said McGowan. The airline is considering how COMAC’s aircraft, including the C919, might be integrated into its operations.

McGowan also stated that the airline is looking into the potential of the COMAC C919 for its narrowbody fleet, while also evaluating the possibility of the COMAC C929 to meet its future needs for mid-sized widebody aircraft.

Fleet Expansion Plans Continue Despite Delays

In addition to the 777X deliveries, Cathay Pacific is also expanding its fleet with Airbus aircraft. As of now, its subsidiary HK Express is expecting three A321neo jets along with two A320neos in 2026. Meanwhile, three Airbus narrowbodies—either A320neo or A321neo—are set to be delivered in the same year.

The Cathay Pacific Group, which includes Cathay Pacific, HK Express, Air Hong Kong, and Cathay Cargo, announced a net profit of HKD9.89 billion (USD1.27 billion). In recent years, the airline has been focused on expansion, making adjustments to its services. It has introduced new fare bundles, added different cabin classes, and removed most additional fees that previously contributed to its revenue.

As part of its efforts to explore future fleet options, a team of senior managers, led by CEO Ronald Lam, visited COMAC in late 2024. McGowan confirmed the visit, stating, “A team of senior Cathay Group managers, led by CEO Ronald Lam, visited COMAC in late 2024.” He also mentioned, “We’re very pleased to share our experience and contribute to COMAC’s development.”

Future Aircraft Deliveries and Market Expansion

Meanwhile, as Boeing awaits certification of its B777X program from the US Federal Aviation Administration, Cathay Pacific is set to continue expanding its fleet. The airline, which operates HK Express, Air Hong Kong, and Cathay Cargo, is also set to take delivery of additional Airbus aircraft in the coming years.

As per its current fleet strategy, HK Express is scheduled to receive three A321neo jets and two A320neos in 2026. Additionally, Cathay Pacific has orders for thirty-one Boeing 777-9 aircraft. These new jets are expected to eventually replace its older long-haul aircraft, bringing increased fuel efficiency and improved passenger experience.

McGowan also mentioned that the airline is considering how COMAC’s aircraft might fit into its future fleet strategy. In addition to the Boeing 777-9 deliveries, the company has orders for three more Airbus narrowbodies, either A320neo or A321neo, set to arrive in 2026. Six new Airbus aircraft are planned to strengthen the airline’s regional and international operations in the coming years.

Cathay Pacific’s fleet expansion plans come at a time when the airline is working to build on its recent profitability. The company’s financial performance has improved significantly, with a net profit of HKD9.89 billion Hong Kong dollars (USD1.27 billion) in 2023, reflecting a financial turnaround following previous losses. However, operational costs have continued to rise, contributing to a reported increase in pre-tax losses. Despite these challenges, the airline remains focused on long-term growth and strengthening its position in the aviation market.