Cathay Pacific is set to expand its global network this year by relaunching direct flights between Hong Kong and Rome, starting June 5, 2025. This new route will operate as a three-times-weekly summer seasonal service, becoming the airline’s second direct connection between Hong Kong and Italy. Cathay Pacific already operates flights to Milan, which will increase to a daily service during the summer. This will be an exciting addition for travelers interested in Cathay Pacific’s new route to Rome.
The reintroduction of flights to Rome comes at a meaningful time, coinciding with the 2025 Year of Jubilee, a rare event held every 25 years by the Catholic Church. Visitors can anticipate various celebrations in Vatican City and Rome throughout the year. Rome remains one of Europe’s top cultural destinations, boasting historical landmarks, museums, and religious sites that attract travelers from around the world. This makes Cathay Pacific’s new Rome flights particularly timely.
Lavinia Lau, Cathay Pacific’s Chief Customer and Commercial Officer, emphasized the significance of this move. “Cathay Pacific’s history in Italy stretches back close to 40 years when we first launched direct flights between Hong Kong and Rome in 1986. We know our customers have been eagerly anticipating the return of this route, and we are delighted to be returning to Italy’s marvellous capital this summer. Whether they are travelling for business, leisure, or the 2025 Jubilee celebrations, we look forward to welcoming customers onboard our flights to experience our world-class service.” With the return of the Rome route, Cathay Pacific is strengthening its offerings.
Airbus A350-900 for the Rome Route
Cathay Pacific will operate the new route using its Airbus A350-900 aircraft. The airline’s flagship aircraft features fully flat beds in Business Class, spacious seating in Premium Economy, and enhanced comfort in Economy Class cabins. For those planning to fly with Cathay Pacific to Rome, the A350-900 ensures a comfortable journey.
The flight schedule will include departures from Hong Kong at 12:45 AM, arriving in Rome at 7:50 AM. Return flights will leave Rome at 11:45 AM, arriving in Hong Kong the next day at 5:20 AM. Flights will run on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with all timings subject to regulatory approval. Plan your trips accordingly on Cathay Pacific’s Rome flights.
Part of a Broader Network Expansion
The launch of the Hong Kong-Rome route is part of Cathay Pacific’s larger strategy to grow its network. Alongside the Rome service, the airline will introduce flights to Hyderabad in March, Dallas in April, Munich in June, and Brussels in August 2025. Its low-cost subsidiary, HK Express, has also recently launched flights to Sendai in January. The addition of Rome shows Cathay Pacific’s commitment to global connectivity.
By the end of 2025, Cathay Pacific and HK Express plan to serve 100 destinations worldwide. This expansion reinforces Hong Kong’s position as a leading hub for international travel, providing seamless connections for travelers from Europe to the Asia-Pacific region. This includes access to 19 destinations in Mainland China through Cathay Pacific and HK Express. The new Cathay Pacific Rome flights are a key part of this strategy.
