Cathay Pacific Evaluates Boeing 787 and 777X for New Order
Cathay Pacific Airways is reportedly evaluating both the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the Boeing 777X series for its next widebody aircraft order. According to a Bloomberg report, the Hong Kong-based airline has initiated discussions with Boeing regarding specifications and timelines for both aircraft types.
The new planes are intended to replace older Boeing 777-300s, 777-300ERs, and Airbus A330s currently in service. This acquisition is part of Cathay Pacific’s broader strategy to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. A final decision on the order’s specific breakdown is expected to be announced in 2025.
Alex McGowan, Cathay’s Chief Operations and Service Delivery Officer, confirmed that the airline is considering the Boeing 787 family, as well as the yet-to-be-certified 777X series, particularly the 777-9 variant. Additionally, Cathay may explore options with Airbus for orders that could include more A330neos, A350-900s, and A350-1000 aircraft.
This upcoming order will complement a series of recent acquisitions, including 30 Airbus A330neos and 30 options announced in August 2024 to replace aging A330-300s, 32 A320neo family aircraft ordered in October 2023, and six A350 freighters for its cargo division. Cathay Pacific also has 22 Boeing 777-9s on order from a previous agreement.
Currently, Cathay Pacific operates a diverse fleet of 180 aircraft, including 15 A321neos, 43 A330-300s, 30 A350-900s, 18 A350-1000s, 17 777-300s, and 36 777-300ERs, all centered around Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). While the airline has extensive experience with the 777 family, introducing the 787 Dreamliner would represent a significant shift in its fleet composition.
In related news, Cathay Pacific recently unveiled its new business class product, the Aria Suite, alongside refurbished premium economy and economy offerings on a retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER. This refurbishment is part of a comprehensive investment program focused on enhancing its fleet, cabin products, lounges, and sustainability initiatives.
Cathay Pacific is committed to adopting more sustainable practices to support Hong Kong’s aviation development. The airline is expanding its use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and prioritizing fleet modernization, operational efficiency, and high-quality carbon offsets to meet its 2050 net-zero emissions target. Cathay was among the first airlines globally to set a goal of 10% SAF usage by 2030 and has successfully completed SAF uplifts at Hong Kong International Airport and other international locations.
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